I’ve wanted to see a Cirque du Soleil show ever since the late 90s when I saw a clip of one of their Vegas shows. For one reason or another, I never made it to one.
Enter 2022. Cirque du Soleil has been penciled into my calendar since autumn when I first heard Corteo announced on the radio at my physical therapist’s office. That announcement led to excited “post-Covid” conversation about the live shows “we’ve always wanted to see” but hadn’t yet.
As I was contemplating buying tickets, I received a media invitation to the show. Spoiler: I said YES!
They also offered to give away a set of passes to one of my readers for the January 17, 2023 7:30 PM ET Premiere showing of Corteo in Manchester, NH. Read through for details on how to enter!
Corteo Storyline
First off, let me say that I have never liked clowns. I have no idea if I blocked some traumatic memory from my childhood that had to do with clowns. Or if it’s simply because I can’t see their faces or who they really are. Either way, generally not my jam. (Sorry if your hobby or day job is, well, being a clown.)
That being said, I vetted whether or not I wanted to attend this show based on that, and the storyline and the way the clowns appear totally doesn’t creep me out when I imagine sitting through the show. In fact, I’m pretty excited about this storyline because it’s new and different.
Corteo, cortege in Italian, is a processional, especially a funeral processional. The storyline of the show is a festive parade taking place at a carnival for a clown’s funeral, as imagined by Mauro the clown.
Rather than a somber occasion, it’s a celebration of Mauro’s life and memories. The show is said to be full of fun and comedy with contrasts of large and small moments, happy and sad.
You can read more about the show and buy tickets here.
*There are standard ticket options and a special discount offer to take the whole family.
Also, be sure to follow along with my stories over on Instagram on January 19th for a behind-the-scenes peek at rehearsals!
Show Details (Logistics)
Location: SNHU Arena – 555 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101
Dates: January 19-22, 2023 (*giveaway is for the January 19, 7:30 PM Premiere Show)
Parking: on-street parking and event parking around the stadium
Looking for a place to eat before the show? This article on things to do in Manchester includes a list of restaurants.