Dralion: An Artistic Overview

By Ben York
Posted: Nov. 19, 2012

Cirque Du Soleil's trademark is how they continually evolve in order to appeal to audiences worldwide.

Not surprisingly, from a thematic standpoint, this begins with art direction and stage design.

In Dralion, coming to Phoenix Nov. 28 - Dec. 2, a mammoth structure creates the huge backdrop that dominates the stage. This metallic set piece is 60 feet wide and 26 feet tall and is suggestive of a futuristic Chinese temple or a giant plate of medieval armor.

The most imposing feature is the metallic wall which spans the full length of the stage. Covered with perforated aluminum tiles, the wall is strong and resilient while giving the impression of being light and flexible. The six giant claws attached to the structure allow artists to climb and suspend themselves from the wall.

Three concentric aluminum rings are suspended high above the stage. The first serves as a catwalk for performers and technicians. The second is used to support technical and acrobatic equipment, including the enormous lantern that descends at the end of the first half of the show. The third ring is used to move performers up, down and through the world of Dralion. 

View the video above to see more behind-the-scenes footage as Sean McKeown, Artistic Director, talks about his unique vision for Dralion above.