Cirque du Soleil is seeking to create a memorable experience for Taipei audiences next month when it presents Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour, in which it recreates key moments in the singer’s life, a publicist with the Canadian company said yesterday.
The production combines the music and choreography of Jackson, including his iconic moonwalk and leaning moves, with Cirque du Soleil’s acrobatics, aerial gymnastics and contortions, Laura Silverman told a press conference in Taipei.
“This is a Cirque du Soleil [show] and a rock-pop concert combined,” she said.
A total of 49 acrobats, dancers and musicians were selected from thousands to play the “King of Pop” in the production, which portrays the singer from age six until his death, Silverman said.
The 105-minute show uses about 35 of Jackson’s songs, she said.
She said the show differs from other Cirque du Soleil productions in that it is a hybrid of acrobatic and dance performances, so acrobats had to learn dance moves and dancers had to learn acrobatic moves.
It also resembles a rock concert since the performances are held in arenas that can accommodate 10,000 to 12,000 people, she added.
“You really feel like you are at a Michael Jackson concert,” she said, adding that her company hopes audiences can experience the Michael Jackson legend through the show.
Five performances of the production, which premiered in 2011, will be staged at the Taipei Arena from June 28 to June 30. It was the highest-grossing performance tour in the US in 2011.
Taiwan will be the show’s 22nd destination. The production is currently touring Japan and will move on to South Korea after Taipei.
Ticket prices range from NT$400 for students to NT$6,800 and can be purchased at 7-Eleven iBon kiosks. For booking assistance, call 8643-3955.
Additional reporting by staff writer
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