Erie Philharmonic Brings The Circus To Erie with Troupe Vertigo

Jared Platt

In the final Pops Series performance of the year, the Erie Philharmonic will accompany the astonishing circus arts of Troupe Vertigo. Strongmen, aerialists, tightrope walkers, and acrobats will all perform on the Warner stage.

SATURDAY, APR. 15

The Erie Philharmonic is combining the wonder of orchestral music with the thrill of the circus in the final Pops performance of the season featuring Troupe Vertigo. With circus acts choreographed to symphonic music, the group has collaborated with symphonies across the United States and worldwide, and has been highlighted for their unique approach to circus arts by TED, The Chicago Contemporary Circus Festival, and Montreal's Cirque Festival.

"Troupe Vertigo will bring a custom, ensemble-based show where the high caliber cirque acts are woven together seamlessly with each unique musical selection. This will be an evening of stunning physical feats choreographed into works of art," the Philharmonic describes. "Imagine strongmen, aerialists, tightrope walkers, and acrobats all performing on the Warner stage directly in front of the Philharmonic in a night destined to astound and amaze audiences of all ages."

Founded in 2009 by Cirque du Soleil veteran Aloysia Garve and theater director Rex Camphuis, Troupe Vertigo has worked throughout the performing arts world to create shows that combine circus, dance, and theater for symphonic orchestras. This includes collaborations with Baltimore Symphony Orchestra conductor Jack Everle on Cirque Carmen, a show set to the George Bizet opera, along with performances with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra set to the famous ballets The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and Cinderella. Most recently, the group worked with composer and Detroit Symphony Orchestra conductor Jeff Tyzik on Symphonic Cirque Noir, a show based on his jazz-inspired selections.

Troupe Vertigo also provides community outreach as part of its "Cirque School." Based in Los Angeles, the companion company teaches weekly classes, including student performances, team-building workshops, and pre-professional training for performers. The company is also heavily involved with the entertainment industry, with credits including the films Pitch Perfect 2 and Water for Elephants.

Performances at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. // Warner Theatre, 811 State St. // $12-$60 // For tickets and info: eriephil.org