Press Release

Experience live music, extraordinary skating and stunning visuals on ice in Cirque du Soleil AXEL

MONTRÉAL, September 4, 2019 – It is with great excitement that Cirque du Soleil gave a first glimpse of its latest on-ice production, Cirque du Soleil AXEL. Presented by Sun Life Global Investments, the show will be performed at the Ed Lumley Arena in Cornwall, at the Centre Videotron in Quebec City, then at the Bell Centre in Montreal for its World Premiere on Thursday, December 19. Montreal performances will run for the Holiday period until December 29. Tickets are available online at cirquedusoleil.com/axel.

While the show is currently in rehearsals, the team took a moment to present three exciting worlds which blend high-level freestyle skating, solo figure skating, diabolo on skates and an aerial contortion duo, all combined with live music and stunning visuals. Cirque du Soleil AXEL sets the scene for an electrifying ice spectacle.

“For Cirque du Soleil AXEL, we were inspired by the feeling of arena concerts,” said Patricia Ruel, Creative Director. “With Axel as the singer, popular songs, lights, laser and video effects fueling the high-flying ice-skating and acrobatics, we created an atmosphere that catalyzes energy and excitement.”

An inspirational and musical storyline

Axel, a young graphic artist and musician, projects himself into his art while experiencing his first love with the captivating Lei. In this epic fantasy, where graphical universes and music intertwine, Axel realizes that love shines brighter than even the most radiant star. Together, they jet off on a fast-moving quest to retrieve a stolen light from the hands of the supervillain Vï. Charged with spectacular ice skating, breath-taking acrobatics, pop-rock music and vibrant visuals, the show offers an uplifting and immersive experience for all family members.

In Cirque du Soleil AXEL, the music is at the core of the story as it serves a narrative thread through hit songs and an original score, carefully curated and composed to appeal to different generations and to enhance the emotions expressed.

A dynamic new discipline

This Cirque du Soleil creation brings a new look to the world of ice skating by introducing the discipline of freestyle skating. This fresh take on skating, combined with the skill and power of traditional pairs, solo, and adagio work, allows Cirque du Soleil to set the stage for high calibre ice skating of all kinds.

Team

Cirque du Soleil AXEL showcases the talent of 16 creators, under the artistic guidance of Yasmine Khalil, Chief Executive Producer, and Daniel Fortin, Vice President, Creation:

Partners

Cirque du Soleil AXEL would like to thank its presenting partner, Sun Life Global Investments, and its official partner, Mastercard.

About Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group

Cirque du Soleil AXEL is the 48^th original production of Cirque du Soleil, part of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, and its second on-ice experience.

Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is a world leader in live entertainment. On top of producing world-renowned circus arts shows, the Canadian organization brings its creative approach to a large variety of entertainment forms such as multimedia productions, immersive experiences, theme parks and special events. It currently has 4,500 employees from nearly 70 countries. Going beyond its various creations, Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group aims to make a positive impact on people, communities and the planet with its most important tools: creativity and art. For more information about Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, please visit CDSentertainmentgroup.com.

Media Contact:

Julie Desmarais | Cirque du Soleil AXEL | +1 702 686-7205 | julie.desmarais@cirquedusoleil.com