Cirque du Soleil brings 'Corteo' to Hartford

Dec. 16—HARTFORD — Cirque du Soleil has returned to Hartford with its production of "Corteo" running through Sunday at the XL Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza.

"We're excited," said Marcelo Perna, who plays the White Clown.

Known for their acrobatics, aerials, contortionists, and many other elements, Cirque du Soleil's "Corteo" — which premiered in 2005 — maintains that sense of awe and wonder.

Cirque du Soleil

What: "Corteo" featuring acrobatics, aerials, contortionists, and many other elements.

When: Through Sunday, times vary.

Where: XL Center, Hartford.

Tickets: Starting at $39; www.cirquedusoleil.com/usa/hartford/shows

The production, created and directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca and originally presented in Cirque du Soleil's classic big top format, ended its first run in 2015, Perna said, before it was relaunched in 2017 for arenas.

The show has been performed before more than 10 million people, Alexandra Gaillard, publicist for "Corteo," said.

"There are 120 members on tour, including 53 artists, and 28 nationalities," she said.

The term "corteo" is Italian for cortege, or a funeral procession, but it isn't a mournful or sad show.

"It's very near to my heart," Alison Crawford, the show's artistic director, said. "It's the story of an older clown who's dreaming of his funeral. The show is the celebration of his life. It's a show of hope. It's magical.

"Daniele wanted us to remember people in our lives that are dear to us," Crawford said. "It makes you remember your grandfather, your grandmother, your father. When I was creating it, my father died before that. Being close to him and remembering him. That's the message, remembering our loved ones."

Perna said he joined the cast of "Corteo" when the show came to his home country of Brazil in 2013 and has performed in over 1,500 performances. Each act, he said, whether it be gymnasts, jugglers, or any other performer, is a representation of the life of Mauro.

"It's a show so intense with the lights, the music, we can involve the audience in the history," he said. "Everyone in the audience can recognize yourself, because everybody has lost someone.

"I love to do this show," Perna said. "You have a beautiful environment. It's fantastic touring. I'm happy to be here. I hope to have a long life in 'Corteo.'"

"I never tire of this show," Crawford said. "I watch it almost every night. I still laugh and get goosebumps.

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