Corteo by Cirque Du Soleil is a Must See

Corteo is one of the most dynamic and creative artistic exploits of body movement that you can see in the United States. You can still buy tickets here and performances continue until May 4 at Marymoor Park in Redmond.

In our interview with Alison Crawford, Corteo senior artistic director, we asked her to share her favorite Corteo scene. If we had been asked the same question, our answer would be, without a doubt, the chandelier scene. Picture a clown who just realized he died. As he begins reflecting on his life, three women who were past lovers appear and begin a synchronized routine from swinging chandeliers 30 feet in the air. It’s breathtaking. Throughout the show, the music is performed live in its true, classic Italian form.

This was our first event at Marymoor, and while parking was a mess ($15 on top of ticket prices, and very crowded), the vast space available—roughly 640 acres—is impressive. The big top fits nearly 3,000 people, plus more than five additional tents for refreshments and nifty souvenirs.

The traveling Cirque Du Soleil performances also bring perks to the local economy. Two years ago, Cirque Du Soleil brought Varekai to Marymoor, which grossed King County Parks and Recreation more than $500,000 in revenue. Additionally, more than 25 local employees are hired for the show’s duration.

Want to splurge? Purchase Tapas Rouge tickets for the VIP experience, which includes unlimited goodies—from martinis and champagne to crab cakes and chocolate-dipped cheesecake. Upfront parking and Cirque Du Soleil swag come with the package.

Picture by Marie-Reine Mattera ©Cirque du Soleil, Inc. 2005.