Cirque du Soleil and The Neon Museum Unveil Unique Exhibition in Las Vegas

A Unique Collaboration: Cirque du Soleil and The Neon Museum

In an unprecedented partnership, Cirque du Soleil, the renowned global entertainment producer, has joined forces with The Neon Museum, a nonprofit institution committed to preserving Las Vegas's rich history. This collaboration has birthed the first-ever exhibition titled "Stories from Backstage Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas," marking a significant milestone in the museum’s mission to celebrate the vibrant culture of Vegas. Running until May 1, 2025, this exhibition is housed in the Grand Gallery at City Hall in downtown Las Vegas, showcasing over 100 costumes and artifacts reflecting over three decades of extraordinary entertainment.

Visitors will embark on an enchanting journey through the world of Cirque du Soleil, uncovering the artistry, innovation, and persistence that define the brand. The exhibition reveals how talented performers transition from athletes to artists while mastering their complex characters. Notably, it highlights the integration of cutting-edge technology in the evolution of costumes, inviting guests to appreciate the intricate details that characterize Cirque's iconic shows.

The display features stunning costumes, wigs, makeup, measurement sheets, 3D-printed fabrics, and shoes from five of Cirque’s current shows: Mystère, O, Mad Apple, KÀ, and Michael Jackson ONE. Highlights include the famed Spearmen shoes from KÀ, synchronized swimmers' wigs from O, the dazzling Red Bird costume from Mystère, and the mesmerizing Bateau from O. This diverse collection not only celebrates the aesthetics of Cirque's productions but also the stories behind the creativity.

“Bringing this unique exhibition to life is a significant moment for both The Neon Museum and Cirque du Soleil,” expressed Aaron Berger, executive director at The Neon Museum. “It encapsulates our mission to illuminate the cultural essence of Las Vegas by preserving and sharing its iconic stories.” The collaborative effort aims to afford visitors a deeper understanding of the vibrant creativity and artistry that has surrounded Cirque du Soleil shows since their inception in Las Vegas.

Mike Newquist, chief revenue officer for Cirque du Soleil, emphasized the importance of partnership: “The Neon Museum's dedication to showcasing and preserving our collections underscores the intrinsic bond that Cirque du Soleil shares with Las Vegas.” Both organizations recognize how crucial the Nova and Neon culture has become to the Las Vegas identity.

The exhibition opens its doors to the public from Monday to Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It complements The Neon Museum's four-day Duck Duck Shed event, which is scheduled for April 24-27, 2025. This program aims to provide deeper insights into Las Vegas’ architecture, design, and culture through various behind-the-scenes tours and discussions.

Set against the backdrop of the vibrant history of Las Vegas, The Neon Museum houses other esteemed displays such as the Neon Boneyard, which showcases historic signs once gleaming in the Nevadian landscape. With regard to future expansions, the museum plans to grow its outreach and educational programming, revealing more about the stories that define the city. It aims to foster a deeper connection with both locals and tourists alike, allowing them to appreciate the artistic legacy of Las Vegas.

In conclusion, the "Stories from Backstage" exhibition promises to be a delightful experience for all who attend, showcasing the incredible talent and artistry that goes into Cirque du Soleil productions. As guests step into this artistic realm, they will leave with an enriched perspective on why Cirque has become synonymous with the magic of Las Vegas over the past 30 years. For further information regarding the exhibition and other events, please visit The Neon Museum's website.