Cirque du Soleil: Fire Within

Watch Cirque du Soleil: Fire Within

  • TV-PG
  • 2004
  • 1 Season
  • 7.8  (145)

Cirque du Soleil: Fire Within is a captivating behind-the-scenes look at the groundbreaking circus troupe's creative process as they prepare for their mystical show Varekai. The show provides an intimate look at the dedication, artistry, and athleticism that goes into the production of one of the most innovative theatrical experiences in the world.

Following the lives and work of a handful of Cirque du Soleil members, Fire Within creates an immersive experience that transports viewers to behind the curtains of a theatrical production that they have never seen before. The show follows the ups and downs of the creation of their new show, Varekai, as it evolves from concept to polished production.

The captivating series charts the creation of the show as it takes form in front of the camera, from the first rehearsals to the final breathtaking performance. It showcases the dedication of the cast and crew as they put in countless hours of hard work to craft the mesmerizing theatrical production.

The audience sees the meticulous work that goes into every aspect of the show, from costume design and transportation to rehearsals and makeup. For instance, viewers are privy to the exhaustive and intricate work that goes into making the exquisite and elaborate costumes that the artists wear on stage to create a magical and otherworldly atmosphere.

Coupled with the allurement of the performers' talents, Fire Within also showcases the personal sides of the artists, allowing the audience to draw close to the individuals who make the immersive experience possible. They meet people like Oleg Ouchakov, a Russian tightrope walker whose strong focus on his art’s precision and elegance embodies the ethos of the Cirque du Soleil team.

Additionally, they also get to meet Olga Pikhienko, a Ukrainian gymnast and dancer whose immense drive and determination take her from a soloist act to the entire Cirque company’s leader. She works diligently with her mentor and friend, Stella Umeh, who is a Nigerian contortionist and dancer, who never once loses focus on her stage presence and captivating performances.

At the center of the show is the talent and creativity of the performers. Their artful acrobatics, their impressive choreography, and their breathtaking stunts showcase the incredible skill and breathtaking artistry at work in the production of the Cirque du Soleil performances.

The acrobatic feats that the troupe performs in Varekai will take your breath away. They include everything from exceptional musicians and breathtaking aerial acts that fling performers through the air with incredible ease to graceful and awe-inspiring contortionist performances that have you wishing you had that level of flexibility.

Fire Within chronicles the creative process from concept to curtain call. With behind-the-scenes clips from rehearsals and performances, this engaging series provides an unprecedented view of the world of Cirque du Soleil - how their unique styles are birthed, how they all work together, and the stunning results that they can achieve as a team that is so much more significant than a mere collection of individual performers and creative minds.

In conclusion, Cirque du Soleil: Fire Within is a spellbinding look at the creation of Varekai and the talented and hardworking team of performers, designers, and directors who made it possible. From the inspirational journeys of the artists to the groundbreaking acrobatics and stunning visual effects, Fire Within is a thrilling and captivating look at one of the greatest shows on earth.

Cirque du Soleil: Fire Within
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Seasons
Fire Within The Aftermath  Departure
13. Fire Within The Aftermath Departure
November 2, 2004
Following the premiere of Varekai and a series of dramatic adjustments to the show, the artists now prepare for years of touring. A new world opens that holds as much discovery, difficulty, and excitement as the one they are leaving.
Fire Within: The Aftermath & Departure
13. Fire Within: The Aftermath & Departure
November 2, 2004
Following the premiere of Varekai and a series of dramatic adjustments to the show, the artists now prepare for years of touring. A new world opens that holds as much discovery, difficulty, and excitement as the one they are leaving.
Fire Within: Opening Night
12. Fire Within: Opening Night
November 2, 2004
An episode devoted entirely to the dynamic, colorful evening of the world premiere of Varekai.
Fire Within: Countdown to Premiere
11. Fire Within: Countdown to Premiere
November 2, 2004
As tensions mount even higher, the final details are tended to. Guy Laliberté and Dominic Champagne, Director of Varekai, try to calm the artists' nerves as the world premiere approaches. The last dress rehearsal is performed.
Fire Within: The Lion's Den
10. Fire Within: The Lion's Den
November 2, 2004
The artists perform Varekai for the first time in front of an audience consisting of Guy Laliberté and a select public. This event is called the "˜Lion's Den'; the tensions are high as the artists feel the pressure to perform at their optimum.
Fire Within: The Grand Chapiteau
9. Fire Within: The Grand Chapiteau
November 2, 2004
The first rehearsal under the blue and yellow Grand Chapiteau (Big Top) takes place. An emotional upset occurs as two of the artists deal with a harsh blow. Back at Cirque du Soleil, it is time to present the new show Varekai to the press.
Fire Within: Moving On
8. Fire Within: Moving On
November 2, 2004
Rehearsals progress and the Grand Chapiteau (Bit Top) is mounted. Make-up is designed, costumes fitted, and visual identity of the show Varekai has evolved.
Fire Within: Pushing Acrobatics
7. Fire Within: Pushing Acrobatics
November 2, 2004
All the characters feel the pressure and intensity of the approaching Varekai world premiere. Insecurities are revealed as they push themselves to meet individual expectations.
Fire Within: New Blood
6. Fire Within: New Blood
November 2, 2004
For the first time, the entire cast of Varekai is assembled together. Rehearsals begin and the artists endure their second presentation to Guy. Can the triple trapeze shape up to Guy's expectations?
Fire Within: Christmas
5. Fire Within: Christmas
November 2, 2004
The holiday season brings a more intimate look into the Varekai characters as they reflect on their lives and relationships outside Cirque du Soleil.
Fire Within: Shooting Stars
4. Fire Within: Shooting Stars
November 2, 2004
It is officially time for the artists to join Cirque du Soleil and the initiation into the Cirque family begins. Questions are raised as certain artists review the terms of their contracts. The name of the new show, Varekai, is finally chosen.
Fire Within: The Rise and Fall of the Trapeze
3. Fire Within: The Rise and Fall of the Trapeze
November 2, 2004
Within the creation process of Varekai, artists prepare their first act presentations to Guy Laliberté, Founder of Cirque du Soleil and the Creative Guide for the show. Today, the triple trapeze act is the unfortunate focus of Guy's attention.
Behind Closed Studio Doors
2. Behind Closed Studio Doors
November 2, 2004
he character's stories from Varekaiâ„¢ begin to unfold as the focus turns to their personal lives. One artist is already on his way back home.... does he plan on returning to Cirque du Soleil?
New Arrivals
1. New Arrivals
November 2, 2004
A group of new artists from all over the world arrive at the international headquarters of Cirque du Soleil in Montreal. The adventure begins with the creation of the new show Varekai.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    November 2, 2004
  • IMDB Rating
    7.8  (145)