Since 1984, Montreal-based Cirque du Soleil has thrilled more than 33 million spectators in over 130 cities worldwide. But it was the daring vision of Guy Laliberté that was the driving force behind Quebec’s first internationally renowned circus.

Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec is known for its panoramic landscapes, charming streets, and thriving arts culture. In this haven of creativity, young street performers routinely delighted tourists by walking on stilts, juggling, and eating fire. In 1982 Laliberté, a multi-talented street performer from Quebec City, began working with local talent to reinvent the circus. He envisioned a striking balance of theatre, dance, circus arts, and street entertainment.

In 1984, Cirque du Soleil was born, debuting in Gaspé, Quebec before touring ten other cities across the province. One year later, the performers premiered their magic in Ontario and Vancouver, and raised Cirque’s first trademark blue-and-yellow Grand Chapiteau, capable of seating 800. Today’s Grand Chapiteau now seats 2,500.

Between 1987 and 1989, Cirque du Soleil toured the United States with We Reinvent the Circus.

Music remains at the heart of every Cirque du Soleil experience. In 1990, the company premiered Nouvelle Expérience while sending We Reinvent the Circus on its first sold out tour of Europe, beginning in London and Paris. Among Cirque du Soleil’s 2,500 employees and artists, over 40 nationalities are represented and 25 different languages are spoken.

Cirque du Soliel currently has nine different shows on four continents including; Kurios touring in Canada and the US, Totem in Japan, and Varekai in the UK.