Cirque du Soleil's IRIS Comes to The Kodak Theatre in Summer 2011

Cirque du Soleil announced that it will debut a brand new production, IRIS, exclusively at Kodak Theatre, home of the Academy Awards next summer.

The word "iris" refers to the adjustable opening-or diaphragm-that controls the amount of light that passes through a camera lens. The word also refers to the colored part of the eye. IRIS will take a unique look at the world of cinema.

Directed by French director-choreographer Philippe Decoufle, IRIS is a lyrical, fanciful, kinetic foray into the seventh art. Bringing together dance, acrobatics, live video, filmed sequences and animation, the show takes spectators on a fantastic voyage through the history of cinema and its genres, taking them into the heart of the movie-making process. From illustration to animation, black and white to colour, silent films to talkies, fixed shots to swooping camera movements, spectators witness the poetic construction/deconstruction of this art as an object and as a way of transcending reality.

"We are thrilled to have found such a spectacular home in LA," said President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil Daniel Lamarre. "The city is at the forefront not only of film, but music, architecture and art as well. It is our hope that IRIS will be a welcome addition to Hollywood as a destination for visitors. "

IRIS features a cast of over 72 performing artists from all over the world and will be presented exclusively at Kodak Theatre next summer.

Tickets are currently on sale for parties of 12 or more through Cirque du Soleil group sales by calling 877-504-7164.

For advance ticket information, join Cirque Club at www.cirquedusoleil.com.