In a groundbreaking partnership, Cirque du Soleil joins forces with Universal Music Group Nashville to celebrate the pioneering spirit of country music’s trailblazers with the troupe’s newest production, SONGBLAZERS. This unique collaboration delivers an unforgettable experience, seamlessly weaving together the awe-inspiring acrobatics of Cirque du Soleil with heartfelt melodies of beloved country legends, both past and present. Audiences are transported through the rich tapestry of country music’s history and heritage and invited to hold onto their cowboy hats as they embark on a journey unlike any other. Alongside two passionate songwriters, spectators witness the creative process unfold as they delve deep into the essence of country music, crafting the ultimate country song. From the dusty trails of classic ballads to the vibrant energy of modern hits, this electrifying production captures the essence of country music’s enduring legacy, leaving hearts singing and spirits soaring.
MAIN CHARACTERS
- SONGBLAZER, DUSTY — Inspired by the trailblazing singer-songwriters of country music, Dusty yearns to weave his own story into a heartfelt song. Every note he hums, he dreams of capturing the essence of his journey and the spirit of those who came before him, longing to craft the lyrics and melody that resonate with the soul of country music.
- SONGBLAZER, WYATT — Inspired by legendary country musicians, Wyatt embodies groove and joy. Each instrument he plays and every rhythm he embraces, he channels the timeless spirit of country music, infusing his performances with vibrant energy and infectious fun.
- MOTHER MAY — Inspired by the acclaimed women of country music, Mother May is the spiritual guide and steadfast anchor for our protagonists. Her wisdom and nurturing spirit, reflecting the resilience of country’s female icons, provide unwavering support and inspiration, grounding them throughout their journey, and honoring the legacy of the genre’s great female stars.
- RANCH GIRL, WILLOW — Guiding the mighty longhorn across the plains, Willow embodies the voice of youth and the future strength of country music. Her vibrant spirit and unwavering determination carries the genre forward, blending tradition with innovation to create a new, inspiring chapter in country music’s rich legacy.
- TRAIN BRAKEMAN — Always striving to do good despite the relentless challenges, the train brakeman’s endearing determination and charm reveal a heartfelt desire to find his place. His tenacious and comedic efforts to fit in amidst adversity underscore his spirit, making him a beloved and relatable figure who wins over hearts with his genuine spirit. Always trying to do good despite the hurdles consistently thrown at him, the train brakeman is desperately and charmingly trying to fit in.
- TRAIN CONDUCTOR — Inspired by the tireless spirit of hardworking Americans, the train conductor masks a soft heart beneath his rugged exterior. His dedication and grit, forged by the trials of the railroad, reveal a deep empathy and strength that resonate with the essence of the American dream.
ACTS & SONGS
OPENING ACT
SONG: HELLO WALLS
Following a lukewarm reception at a local talent show, Songblazer Dusty finds himself struggling with writer’s block, catapulting him into a world of creative obstacles, artistic challenges, and distant dreams of future success.
SKIPPING ROPES GROUP ACT
SONG: BLUE MOON OF KENTUCKY
Artists emerge full of energy and inspiration to perform a roof raisin’ skipping rope act that lifts Dusty’s hopes.
ACRO BAR
SONG: COPPERHEAD ROAD
Dusty and Wyatt’s train riding adventure comes to an abrupt halt as a group of outlaws block the track. A female outlaw appears, performing show stopping acrobatics on the railroad crossing bar.
CLOWN ACT
SONG: FREIGHT TRAIN
The train breaks down in the remote southern fields, prompting a comedic brakeman to leap out and attempt repairs—with hilariously unexpected results.
STRONGMAN ACT
SONG: WORKING MAN BLUES
Enter a burly conductor to save the day. With his metal-bending skills and impressive strength, he takes command of repairing the train.
MUSICAL PERFORMANCE
COUNTRY SING-ALONG — POPULAR HITS OLD & NEW
Beneath the stars, our heroes gather the audience around a campfire for a good ol’ heart warming sing-a-long.
CYR WHEEL
SONG: TRAVELLER
An illuminating Cyr Wheel performance conjures a radiant moon, lighting the path for our songwriters’ inspiration.
BARN DANCE
SONG: APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN GIRL
A stunning set transformation pays beautiful homage to the nostalgic stages of barn dance celebrations of bygone eras, inspiring joyful dance scenes that delight our toe-tapping audience.
AERIAL ROPE ACT
SONG: COWBOY TAKE ME AWAY
In the grand finale of the barn dance, Dusty, Wyatt, and Willow deliver a mesmerizing performance that not only seals their promising partnership but also tips its cowboy hat to the boundless success awaiting them.
MUSICAL PERFORMANCE
SONG: MULE SKINNER BLUES
Evoking the charm and nostalgia of beloved classic television shows, the set transforms into a dazzling country soundstage that allows our SONGBLAZERS to channel their new found inspiration and put them on the path to fame and fortune.
HAND TO HAND
SONG: CRAZY & WE’RE GONNA HOLD ON
A playful Hand to Hand performance by Blaze and Pearl captivates the audience as our two SONGBLAZERS find inspiration in some of the great duets of country music.
LINE DANCE
SONG: ACHY BREAKY HEART
Hold onto your cowboy hats as a honky-tonk line dance electrifies the entire stage, engulfing the audience in song and pure joy.
JUGGLING
SONG: RED SOLO CUP
The finale to the line-dancing is a drinking game that evolves into an impressive red solo cup juggling act, taking the fun to the highest level.
TRAPEZE DUET / DUO BODY TRAPEZE
SONG: MAN! I FEEL LIKE A WOMAN!
Jumping onto the bar and launching into a sensuous aerial performance, two female bartenders elevate the atmosphere with a breathtaking acrobatic display of strength, grace and women power.
BAR FIGHT
SONG: ORANGE BLOSSOM SPECIAL
Chaos erupts as Dusty and Wyatt face off with some tough guys, triggering a wild sequence of spectacular fight stunts, chase scenes, bottlebreaking brawls and acrobatic prowess.
MUSICAL PERFORMANCE
SONG: CARNIVAL HEART
Dusty and Wyatt’s inspirational songwriting journey reaches a powerful and emotional climax as the whole cast perform the show’s original song a Carnival Heart.
BANQUINE PYRAMID GROUP ACT
SONG: WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN
The air is charged with celebration as all acrobats make a spectacular entrance, executing daring stunts and forming an impressive human pyramid. The entire cast joins in, creating a fitting final tribute and high flying celebration of country music.
