Wednesday, July 10th, the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) was alive with excitement as Cirque du Soleil's "Songblazers," presented by Cirque du Soleil and Universal Music Group Nashville, had its world premiere in the heart of Nashville. This latest spectacle from the renowned Cirque du Soleil not only showcased their signature blend of acrobatics, music, and visual art but also paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary and modern trailblazers of country music.
A Creative Force: Amy Tinkham
"Songblazers" is the brainchild of writer and director Amy Tinkham. Tinkham has a storied career in the entertainment industry, renowned for her innovative approach to live performances. She has collaborated with numerous high-profile artists, bringing a unique blend of theatrical flair and emotional depth to every project. Her vision for "Songblazers" merges the world of contemporary circus with the rich heritage of country music, creating an experience that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
The Star-Studded Red Carpet
SOURCE member, Christy Walker-Watkins of Aristo Media, a well-known figure in the publicity and media world expertly orchestrated the premiere event. She ensured the evening's red carpet and media event went off without a hitch, creating a glamorous and welcoming atmosphere for all attendees. Among the notable guests were several distinguished members of SOURCE, an organization dedicated to supporting women in the Nashville music industry. These included SOURCE president Kari Barnhart, Claire Cook-Taylor, and this year’s SOURCE Hall of Fame inductee, Sharee Spoltore.
An Enchanting Performance
From the moment the lights dimmed, the energy in the TPAC was electric. The audience was captivated as the performers of "Songblazers" took to the stage, combining breathtaking acrobatics with soulful musical performances. The cast was lifted to the top of the stage with ropes and silks, and thrown into the air with the grace and precision of seasoned trapeze artists. Each act was a tribute to the spirit of country music, celebrating its past legends and current innovators with every flip and spin.
The choreography seamlessly intertwined with the musical score, creating a symphony of movement and sound that resonated deeply with the Nashville audience. It was clear that Tinkham’s direction had brought out the best in her performers, who moved with both power and finesse.
A Tribute to Country Music Trailblazers
"Songblazers" is more than just a circus performance; it’s a love letter to the roots and evolution of country music. The show features original compositions alongside iconic country hits, weaving a narrative that honors the genre’s storied history while looking forward to its vibrant future. A standout moment of the night was the performance of "Carnival Heart," an original song created in collaboration with Sam Williams, a contemporary country artist and the grandson of country pioneer Hank Williams. Written with PJ Harding and Ned Houston, the song fuses gut-wrenching honesty and plainspoken poetics with raw vulnerability and deep empathy, inspired by themes of self-discovery, friendship, and hope. The choice of Nashville, the home of country music, as the venue for the world premiere, was particularly poignant, adding an extra layer of significance to the evening.
As the final curtain fell, the audience erupted into applause, giving a standing ovation to the performers, creators, and everyone involved in bringing "Songblazers" to life. It was a night that perfectly encapsulated the magic of Cirque du Soleil, the passion of country music, and the spirit of Nashville.
Women Behind the Magic
The world premiere of "Songblazers" highlights the impact of women in the music industry. Organizations like SOURCE and the incredible women involved in bringing this performance to life, from the creative minds like Amy Tinkham to the meticulous media planning by Christy Walker-Watkins, showcase the daily influence and power of women in Nashville and the broader music industry. Their dedication, creativity, and leadership continue to shape the cultural landscape, making events like this possible and ensuring the ongoing evolution and celebration of music and performance art.
The world premiere of "Songblazers" was an unforgettable event that brought together the best of circus artistry and country music in a dazzling display of talent and creativity. It’s a must-see for anyone who appreciates the art of performance and the rich cultural heritage of country music. The event also served as a powerful reminder of the essential roles women play in the music industry, inspiring future generations with their talent and dedication.
The show will remain at TPAC until July 28, and you can get your tickets here.
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