I've always been a fan of gymnasts, the height of my obsession being Alexei Nemov at the Sydney Olympics (am I dating myself here?), but Cirque du Soleil's 'Totem' isn't just about amazing body feats. Set to a world music soundtrack, the show features the traditional contortionists, elements from the Shanghai circus, and so many other artistic visual delights.
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| This glitter bodysuit is going to be my next Halloween costume. |
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| Stacking cups on heads. This was a crowd favorite. |
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| Despite the appearances here, these costumes are amazing up close. Also, I'm a sucker for fur, even if they are worn by variations of Darwin's Theory. |
But above all, my favorite part happened backstage, where I got to view the costumes up close. Handmade in every aspect of the word, the clothes are the most spectacular carnival of color. And OMG, DO NOT even get me started on the meticulously arranged rows of MAC make-up. The OCD organizer in me squealed for joy when I saw it.
All of the masks are fitted for each artist, and look shockingly real (or gross, depending on how much you love apes). Another aspect I found surprising is that each actor is required to do their own makeup, and as you can see from the sample Polaroid, the makeup can become quite intricate. This particular actor used to require around 3 hours to put on his performance face. He is now apparently down to 1-1.5 hours. (That would not be me. I would be the loser sitting in front of the mirror for half a day.)
The tour goes on for 15 years, so even if you're not in Atlanta, there's a good chance it might still come to your city. This particular big top is only in ATL until Dec. 31, so you should plan accordingly.
'Totem" by Cirque du Soleil
Located in the Big Top at Atlantic Station
261 19th Street, Northwest
Atlanta, GA 30063
Financial compensation was not provided for this post. Access to the show and media materials were provided by Cirque du Soleil. Opinions stated in this post are my own.
Excuse me, miss, why are you allowed backstage and not me? Was there a secret code or did you wear your Balenciaga boots and Club Monaco leather jacket and thought you were cool enough to enter?
ReplyDeleteUgh I hate you. My favourite show out of all the Cirque has got to be Ka though- saw it in Vegas and it was sooo beautiful and the soundtrack was sooo gorgeous!!!
Sam
http://www.samishome.com
Those costumes look insanely cool, and wow, that first photo is stunning. Would rather like to see something Cirque, it seems like one of those things everyone should see at least once.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tip! I bought a 37 in the pair from spring with the red platform, and I had to put two heel inserts in each to work, so I think I would be OK with the 36.5. I used to always work with Komavi, but he left amidst some drama, so I'm grateful for the new SA recommendations. I have worked with Julio before but he's not my fave, and Allison used to help me with clothes, but she's at Valentino now... Eesh, it's tough when you live out of town! Thanks again, and even though you aren't posting superficial fluff anymore, you should try to make an exception for these shoes ;) I would love to see how you style them. And also, what is your human name (I'm pretty sure you don't actually go by Kitten Masks) so that I can give you credit for sending me to the new SAs :) xx
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