Too Close for Comfort? Close-up Videos of Cirque du Soleil

ONE MAN, 4 KEYBOARDS, 11 PEDALS, A PIRATE COSTUME, LOTS OF MAKE UP, A ROCKIN' BAND AND CIRCUS FREAKS ALL AROUND. WHAT COULD BE MORE FUN?!?!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to float over the head of a Cirque du Soleil band member, listen in on his in-ear monitor mix, and see the show from a whole new angle? Neither have I. But I posted these videos anyway that were taken almost exactly 2 years ago today - December 9, 2006 in Rio de Janeiro. Back then, Saltimbanco was touring in the "big top" instead of the current arena-tour format.

In Saltimbanco, the band is on stage with the acrobats and performers and part of the show. There are all kinds of antics and stunts going on around us. Sometimes you'll catch a glimpse of a performer, or a shadow. You'll see me at times looking out at the stage, checking out what's going on so I can figure out if we'll be switching to a new section of music. You'll hear our band leader give us a head's up or count us in to a new section several times. Enjoy!

For high quality, watch the videos at http://youtube.com/armenc

Barock (Russian Swing)


Pocoleta (Band and "The Dreamer" [character] warm up audience for Act II)