Cirque Dreams: Day 1

Today was my first day at Cirque. I had alot of appointments out of the way already today. I quickly learned that for my track there is no training involved here in Montreal, only meetings and fittings, leaving me alot of time in the next couple weeks to explore.

I always knew what a big company cirque was - but it never really sunk in until I walked into headquarters this morning. Not only is the building HUGE - but it is packed full of people busily working. Everyone has been very friendly and kind thus far.

A very sweet lady by the name of Lili is in charge of my orientation and helping me get to where I need to be the next couple days.

Today I did contracts, physical and medical evaluation, had my head mold made, and my tax paperwork filled out.

My physical evaluation was the most thorough I have ever had. They literally checked every single muscle, joint, and bone in my body from my toes to my ears. I learned today that my lower back and neck hold alot of tension and that my hamstrings have lost alot of flexibility. Something to be worked on. Otherwise I passed the physical test with flying colors so they say. They did also tell me I was a bit too skinny, and suggested I pay a visit to the nutritionist. My body fat % was 4.8. Need to work on that! Seeing all the acrobats and athletes working out in the gym was quite daunting but very cool. The gym, nutritionist, Pilate's instruction, and physical therapy is all here for me to use for free under my contract. I already signed up to get my lower back relieved some!

I was surprised by the amount of artists and acrobats currently here training whether for a specific show or future skills. There are people from all the over the world here. Today I watched two Chinese woman practice their contortion act for Dralion. It was incredible to see so close up in the studio and not in costume. I was in complete awe.

I also watched whom I think is the only other person here preparing to join my show LOVE. A young girl training on the straps - who is to be the new LUCY in the show. I sat an watched her train with her coach for awhile but didn't have the opportunity to introduce myself yet. I hope to soon, because I know we will have some good stage time together.

I forgot that the new show that is to be at City Center with the theme of Elvis is already in creation. There are alot of the cast floating around, and the preparation seems very exciting. I ran into two familiar faces from the Elvis cast. Two young acrobats that were actually in Le Reve the same time I was in Spamalot at the Wynn. It was nice to see their faces and say hello quickly.

I only have one appt tomorrow as of this time and that is measurements with costumes. I hope to explore more, and continue to watch some training. I am very excited for my role in LOVE, but seeing the athleticism and work these people are putting into their specific skills does make me long for a more physically challenging place in the cirque. Maybe in the future. That must be the athlete in me.

Here are just a few pics around Headquarters: