Cirque du Soleil presents Iris, a resident production at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood which opened July 21, 2011. In 1983 Philippe Decoufle gathered a group of artists and artisans together who had been with him as members of his dance company, and they have been with him ever since. Written and directed by Decoufle, this is his first show with Cirque du Soleil. Music composer for Iris, Danny Elfman also makes his debut with the company.

I have seen many of Cirque du Soleil's magnificent and unusual performances over the years. However, this one is unique, at least in our area, for being presented on a stage rather than in their big blue and yellow tent constructed on the beach in Santa Monica.

There is a story in this production, A Journey Through the World of Cinema, when Buster, a composer looking for true love, meets Scarlett, an actress who wants to be a movie star, find themselves in the middle of a film set. With an orchestra's support, the audience is taken on a journey along with Buster and Scarlett (part reality and part make-believe) through the making of a film with movement, moods, images, light and sound, with dance (choreographer DaphneMauger), acrobatics, live video, film footage and interactive projections, that deceive our eyes. With wonderful stage settings (Jean Rabasse), fabulous costumes (designer Philippe Guillotel), mood-setting lighting (designer Patrice Besombes), magnificent performers offering exceptional feats, perfect background music (Elfman) and many others who make up this thrilling spectacle, Iris offers an exciting evening of entertainment for everyone. The show features 72 outstanding performers. Each time I see a Cirque du Soleil production, I know that I am in for an evening of unusual enjoyment. You will be too.

Tickets for Iris can be purchased on line at www.cirquedusoleil.com/IRIS, or by calling (877) 943-IRIS (4747). For parties of 12 or more, contact Cirque du Soleil group sales at (877) 504-7164

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