Cirque du Soleil has been making magical circus shows that feature incredibly talented humans since it’s start in Quebec in 1984. Nineteen years ago Disney partnered with Cirque du Soleil to open La Nouba in a permanant theater located in the new West Side area of what was then Downtown Disney. Sine then the show has anchored that end of the shopping and entertainment district attracting hundreds of audience members to see the show and maybe pick up a meal or a drink before or afterward.
Over the last couple years signs of a slide in popularity have been showing in the La Nouba tent. They brought in new acts in an attempt to revive interest in the show and started a booth in the Marketplace section of Disney Springs trying to get guests to buy tickets for the show. It appears those efforts were not enough and now the show will be shuttered at the end of 2017. My personal opinion is that the crowds coming to Walt Disney World now include a lot of families that want more than a 19-year-old show. So it’s time for a refresh.
“We are incredibly proud of the success that La Nouba has had for nearly two decades,” said Jerry Nadal, Senior Vice President of the Resident Shows Division for Cirque du Soleil. “We want to thank Walt Disney World Resort for a wonderful run over the years. We look forward to announcing what’s next.”
La Nouba was the first permanent Cirque du Soleil show outside of Las Vegas and was very much in line with shows like Mystere, but a little more family friendly giving the Walt Disney World audiences.
When asked if Cirque du Soleil has plans for the theater they issued the following statement, “We’re exploring new opportunities. Given our strong relationship with Disney over the years, we may soon have news to share about exciting new entertainment coming to Disney Springs.”
Sounds like Disney Springs won’t be without a Cirque du Soleil show for long.
Considering there are Cirque du Soleil shows for everything from Michael Jackson to the Beatles, perhaps there is something with Disney roots in the future. Could this be a way for Disney to squeeze Marvel into Walt Disney World without building an attraction in the parks? (That probably violates Disney’s contract with Feld Entertainment, but the idea is intriguing.) Cirque du Soleil also has an Avatar-themed traveling show. Maybe it’s looking for a winter residence or a second home?
You still have 10 months to see La Nouba before the final trapeze artist flies. Will you book a visit? For details about La Nouba, including current offers, or to purchase tickets, visit www.lanouba.com or call 407-939-7600.