Adelaide City Council’s ‘City Culture & Community Services Committee’ has voted in support of a 10 year agreement with Cirque du Soleil, which will enable the show to visit Adelaide on a recurring basis.
The proposal will be presented to full Council next Tuesday the 10th July. If endorsed, Cirque du Soleil will assist in developing the infrastructure and facilities in Tambawodli (Park 24), including the costs of a hard surface to remain in the Park for the life of the agreement.
The move is in line with Council’s current plans to develop the Park into a major multi-purpose event space, which is supported by the Adelaide Park Lands Management Strategy.
Councillor Michael Henningsen said it was an issue of balancing the need for events and protecting our Park Lands.
“There is a lot of merit in providing dedicated event spaces to protect the Park Lands,” Clr Henningsen said.
“The containment of these kinds of activities under this 10 year plan will ensure Adelaide continues to attract major events such as Cirque du Soleil as well as other circuses and festivals, while minimizing the impact on our parks.”
“This agreement is a win-win for the city – it’s proposed that all money raised from this event space will be invested back into the enhancement of the Park Lands.”
Based in Montreal, Cirque du Soleil is one of world’s leading and most respected entertainment companies, performing for over 100 million spectators in more than 300 cities around the world.
Councillor Houssam Abiad said the event would add to city vibrancy and economic development.
“The Show is expected to bring in approximately $6.6 million in direct income through local production, food and beverage, accommodation, retail and transportation.”
Councillor Anne Moran said “It wasn’t an easy decision but to lose a big, international event like this for the city would have been a real shame.”
“We are all Park Land people and it goes to show we consider each proposal individually, one project at a time.”
In May, Council gave the go ahead for Cirque du Soleil to present its big top production of OVO in the Park from 6 December 2012 through to 6 January 2013.
If endorsed by Council, the full terms and condition of the 10 year agreement will be negotiated with Cirque du Soleil before commencement of an installation plan for the permanent surface.
More News
