Legendary Cirque du Soleil to debut in Qatar with signature production, Saltimbanco

The colorful, action-packed performance is scheduled to run from July 4th - 7th, 2012 at Aspire Dome in Doha. The first of seven shows, which include 50 high calibre artists from 20 different countries will kick-start at 8:00pm on Wednesday July 4th, 2012. Tickets will be available starting this Thursday, May 17th, through Virgin Megastores (Landmark and Villaggio Mall locations) and online at cirquedusoleil.qa.

A vivid portrayal of the diversity that defines a metropolis, Saltimbanco is Cirque du Soleil's longest running touring show and has performed since 1992 to sell-out audiences across the world, enticing over 11.5 million enthusiastic fans.

Saltimbanco —from the Italian "saltare in banco," which literally means "to jump on a bench"—explores the urban experience in all its countless forms: the people who live there, their idiosyncrasies and likenesses, families and groups, the hustle and bustle of the street and the towering heights of skyscrapers. A signature show, it is inspired by the urban fabric of the metropolis and its colourful inhabitants. Decidedly baroque in its visual vocabulary, the show's eclectic cast of characters draws spectators into a fanciful, dreamlike world, an imaginary city where diversity is a cause for hope.

Classic Cirque du Soleil at its best, Saltimbanco portrays a thrilling and kaleidoscopic celebration of awe-inspiring artistry and agility. With a cast of 50 high-caliber artists hailing from 20 different countries, Saltimbanco ties synchronized acrobatics and athleticism into artistic expression. Solo spotlights and epic ensembles breathe life into each performance, turning each act into story of its own.

President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil Daniel Lamarre said, "Cirque du Soleil is thrilled to be performing for the first time ever in Qatar. Our live touring show Saltimbanco will present excitement and artistry through our unique fusion of acrobatics and circus arts in a live theatrical experience. Saltimbanco has wowed audiences around the globe and we are looking forward to performances in Doha."