CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S “IRIS”

“IRIS A Journey Through the World of Cinema” is the latest production by Montreal based Cirque du Soleil. IRIS a show about the evolution of the art of cinema, directed and chareographed by Philippe Decouflé is designed for the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. The name refers to the iris of the human eye as well as camera diaphragms. Just like the nature of its name, IRIS enables a colorful vision to the history of moviemaking.

There might not be a better way to escape time than watching the dancers in the most colorful, extravagant costumes perform to the music composed by Danny Elfman. The costuming in IRIS is authentic creation dramatized with detail. Whether it is the performer in black and white stripes with a spinning tutu that functions as a vintage French animation device or the 19^th century invention the hybride camera-head performer, the dancers in costumes are almost mistaken for the beautifully constructed props.

Iris is a celebration of cinematic perception, a detailed design of fantasy offered through the lens of the camera. It is a circus of hypnotizing acrobacy, eccentric props, incredibly creative costumes, beautiful live music and thrilling play of shadows and light. Every single second of the production is meticulously narrated by creative minds to introduce a wonderland where surreal theatricality of the space is a magical remedy for everyday life.  IRIS is a sensational, mesmerizing visual pleasure, an exceptional work of art.

Officially premiered in August 25, 2011, the show will take place 11 months of the year giving a break for a month for the Academy Awards. The $120,000,000 production is scheduled to run for 10 years. 

Images via cirquedusoleil.com