Experience the Fusion of Country Music and Acrobatics When Cirque du Soleil ‘Songblazers’ Comes to Austin

Cirque du Soleil’s innovative production, Songblazers, is set to captivate Austin audiences with its unique blend of classic and modern country music when it takes the stage at Bass Concert Hall this fall. This new show melds the artistry of Cirque du Soleil with the heartfelt storytelling of country music, promising an immersive and memorable experience for all.

Ahead of this exciting debut, we spoke with performer Allora Leonard to delve into the creative process and the magic behind bringing Songblazers to life.

TRIBEZA: Cirque du Soleil Songblazers blends classic and modern country music, paying homage to both. As a singer-songwriter and musician, how does Cirque du Soleil compare to your other experiences? 

Allora: Oh my gosh, it’s so similar, but it’s so different in so many ways. Before joining Cirque, I was just a singer-songwriter. I didn’t really perform with my band very often, so being in a very big production is different. But, I think it’s very similar in having to perform different things on the fly and you have to be able to read the audience really well and try to adjust to that. I think that was really familiar to me. As a songwriter, this story is so special because it really follows the journey of a songwriter and the hills and the valleys of writing a song. Because sometimes you can write a song in an hour, and sometimes it’s taken me months to write one.

TRIBEZA: The show is a unique, immersive auditory and visual experience. What’s a typical day like for you when preparing for a show?

Allora: It always changes depending on how many shows we’re doing, but typically, I’ll try to come in a couple of hours before the show starts and drink a lot of water. I’ll do some vocal warm-ups for about 10 minutes, then do my makeup, do my hair, Then I’ll do a few handshakes and “break a leg, good luck to everybody!” Then I’m then I’m off to the races.

TRIBEZA: In what ways do you think the show resonates with different audiences, especially across the South?

Allora: I think this is such a unique Cirque show because it does follow country music, and it’s very story-based and very music-heavy, as well. What I loved about the story when it was first presented to me, is that we’re definitely following the journey of a songwriter, but it’s also about friendship and kind of how you grow in that, and how it changes so much — just like when you’re songwriting. As a songwriter, your writing style changes, and it’s the same way with your relationships. So it’s very beautiful to watch how that friendship starts and how it grows, how there’s a bit of a falling out, but then they come back together, and it’s just a beautiful journey to watch. I think that’s something that I think anyone can relate to in some way, shape, or form. So I think that’s something that’s really beautiful that you see in the show, and it’s also great because the cast is wonderful. We’re such a family. We’re such a team. So I feel like it’s fun because we all get a little bit of our own friendship that we get to share on stage. So it’s just a family, honestly.

TRIBEZA: How do you think Songblazers adds to the overall Cirque du Soleil experience and influences its legacy?

Allora: You know, this is the first time I believe that Cirque du Soleil has done a show in a theater. Usually it’s in a big top or an arena, so I think the feel, the vibe of it, is a little different than maybe what has been done before. Personally, I’ve always loved going to the theater because it’s so intimate in a way. Sometimes it feels like it’s just me and the performers. I feel like it’s really cool because it is very family-oriented, and there’s something for everybody in the show. You know, if you love country music, you’ll love the show. If you love Cirque du Soleil, you’ll love the show. As someone who loves Cirque du Soleil and loves just seeing shows in general, it feels like you really get to have an immersive experience with the performers.

TRIBEZA: Are there any specific songs or moments in Songblazers that you recommend to the audience as must-see highlights,? If so, why are they particularly special?

Allora: I know one of the show’s highlights is “Red Solo Cup”. Bruno, who’s our juggler, does a phenomenal juggling act. It’s amazing. Then one of my favorites to watch is Brittany on the Cyr wheel, and she performs to “Traveler”, which is one of my personal favorite songs. And shortly after, I sing “Cowboy Take Me Away” to one of our main characters doing his rope act. Every single act is incredible. I never get tired of watching everybody. I can’t say anything bad about any of the acts. They’re all phenomenal. 

There’s still time to get tickets to experience Cirque du Soleil Songblazers at Bass Concert Hall this August 14-18. Visit texasperformingarts.org for more information. We can’t wait to see Allora Leonard and the entire cast bring this captivating blend of country music and Cirque magic to life on stage!