Working side by side with the creators and teams of Cirque du Soleil's new show "Volta" as it was being developed, the mandate was to create the concept, art direction, design & layout of a book conveying the essence of the show, BEFORE the show was produced and began touring. Primarily a story about the main character's inner journey, the book concept aims to convey both his inner world, as well as the archetypes of society which he influences.
The artistic direction / photographic approach was to convey the mood of the story by shooting key textures, fabrics and props found throughout the show, and using these as key graphic elements in the layout. The expressions of the portraits had to convey the humanity behind the mask, since behind each set of character families is a very real story and human range of emotions.
The main challenge of this project was conveying in print the essence of a very technological new show that was in the process of being created, and therefore constantly evolving and adapting. We had to find a way of telling the story (whereas on stage much of it is experienced through breakthrough technology / projections), representing the essential characters and acts (while they were being created / fine tuned & finalized), and while also staying true to the vision of the show creators for this very cutting-edge, new departure for Cirque du Soleil.
The artistic direction / photographic approach was to convey the mood of the story by shooting key textures, fabrics and props found throughout the show, and using these as key graphic elements in the layout. The expressions of the portraits had to convey the humanity behind the mask, since behind each set of character families is a very real story and human range of emotions.
We wanted the layout to take the reader through the same emotions and impressions as the viewer experiences while watching the show. Seeing as the story is primarily about the main character finding his inner freedom, the book carries the reader on the same journey he himself embarks on, and is told through his point of view. The book also includes special "behind the scenes" and "making of the show" sections.
Client / Agency: Cirque du Soleil
Creative Direction: Patrice Boudreault
Concept, Art Direction & Design: Alex Nereuta
Concept, Copywriting: Ronald Clément
Photography: Jocelyn Michel (cover, portrait & characters)
Photography: Patrice Lamoureux (acrobatics, textures & props)
Production: Eric Sauvé
Concept, Art Direction & Design: Alex Nereuta
Concept, Copywriting: Ronald Clément
Photography: Jocelyn Michel (cover, portrait & characters)
Photography: Patrice Lamoureux (acrobatics, textures & props)
Production: Eric Sauvé
