 Robin Leach confirmed what had previously been Vegas rumor fodder.
Launch plans for the official announcement of 'Mindfreak' magician Criss Angel's new Cirque du Soleil spectacular at the Luxor later this year have begun. Cirque's marketing officials with new team members assigned specifically to the magic project met with the pyramid's top-executives next week to lay out the initial promotional campaign. I've learned that there's a staggering record-breaking $200 million earmarked for the production and launch of the magic show.
I'm reliably told that sometime in the next 4-6 weeks that Cirque's top creative team from Montreal will join conjuring king Criss and Luxor President Felix Rappaport for the official announcement here in Vegas and simultaneously unveil the premiere date for later this year, or early next year! It's a full green-light, high-speed ramp-up to take advantage of the extraordinary success of his 'Mindfreak' series on A&E, which is getting the highest ratings in the network's history.
Why is Cirque doing this?
Gosh, well, maybe because Criss Angel is about as hot as a celebrity can get short of self-immolation.
The Montreal-based production company confirmed Mr. Angel's popularity and marketability with the "stunning sales of his merchandise in the new Criss Angel store at the Luxor."
Cirque is looking to grab the 18 to 39 year-olds and Mr. Angel is the one who can provide the bait.
Our metaphor got busted half-way through that last sentence. Sorry.
One Cirque marketing guy told Mr. Leach, "Some of his loyal fans call him the new Houdini and believe he's much more than just a magician; they think he can actually perform miracles. We want full speed ahead to propel his momentum even further forward."
Cirque is known for their extravagant productions (ironic for a
company famous for their return to the tent circus) and this will be no
exception. "Cirque simply wants the best magic show in the world," says
Mr. Leach. "They are committed to delivering the most incredible
illusion show ever created, and they're backing it up with a
$200-million initial budget." Criss and his magic team have already
begun the initial design phases of the illusions to be built. "Since
money is no object here, Cirque simply wants it to be real magic."
Wow.
We wish Mr. Angel the best of luck and offer our congratulations. We cannot wait for our comped opening-night tickets, buddy. - Provided by InsideMagic |
