A story in today's Wall Street Journal asks an important (and brave) question: what's the big deal about Cirque du Soleil? You're as well aware as I of the context for this question: the economy is lousy; many who once had money have it no longer; performing arts organizations like opera, ballet and theater companies are going belly up - and yet, people continue to shell out large sums for a ticket to see what you might call the Starbucks Coffee of the circus world. Or, as our WSJ author puts it:
Cirque du Soleil offers a mash-up of comedy, drama, stunts and romance at a ticket price that makes it appear to be the equal of performing arts without exacting an emotional price. It thrives while regional theaters, operas and orchestras collapse.
The question is, Why? Which would you rather see: an opera or ballet performance, or Cirque du Soleil? Leave a comment and tell us why.
