Cirque du Soleil: Fire Within

A group of new artists from all over the world arrive at the international headquarters of Cirque du Soleil in Montreal. The adventure begins with the creation of the new show.

The character's stories begin to unfold as the focus turns to their personal lives. One artist is already on his way back home...does he plan on returning to Cirque du Soleil?

Within the creation process of Varekai, artists prepare the first presentation of their acts to Guy Laliberte, President and CEO, Founder of Cirque du Soleil but who is also, more importantly, the Creative Guide for the show. Today, the triple trapeze act is the unfortunate focus of Guy's attention.

is officially time for the artists to join Cirque du Soleil and the initiation into the Cirque family begins. Questions are raised as certain artists review the terms of their contracts. The name of the new show is finally chosen.

The holiday season brings a more intimate look into the characters as they reflect on their lives and relationships outside Cirque du Soleil.

For the first time, the entire cast is assembled together. Rehearsals begin and the artists endure their second presentation to Guy. Can the triple trapeze shape up to Guy's expectations?

All the characters feel the pressure and intensity of the approaching world premiere. Insecurities are revealed as they push themselves to meet individual expectations.

Rehearsals progress and the Grand Chapiteau is mounted. Make-up is designed, costumes fitted, and the show's visual identity has evolved.

The first rehearsal under the new blue and yellow Grand Chapiteau takes place. An emotional upset occurs as two of the artists deal with a harsh blow. Back at Cirque du Soleil, it is time to present the new show to the press.

The artists will perform Varekai for the first time in front of an audience consisting of Guy and a select audience of 500. This event is called the "Lion's Den." Tensions are high as the artists feel the pressure to perform at optimum level. Will all the artists continue onwards to the premiere?

As tensions mount even higher, the final details are tended to. Guy and Dominic Champagne, Director of Varekai, try to calm the artists' nerves as the world premiere approaches. The last dress rehearsal is performed.

An episode devoted entirely to the dynamic, colorful evening of the world premiere of Varekai.

Following the premiere, a series of dramatic adjustments to the show and to the artists' lives as one process ends, and another begins. The artists now prepare for three years of touring. A new world opens that holds as much discovery, difficulty, and excitement as the one they are leaving.