Cirque du Soleil is delighted to bring its first festive theater production to Europe: 'Twas the Night Before..., to be seen in Antwerp. The performance is inspired by the joy of giving and the wonder of the holidays. Whether you are 5, 50, or 95 years old, you will undoubtedly be amazed by the impressive acrobatics and the heartwarming story.
Van Sinterklaas to Santa Claus
‘Twas the Night Before…’ is inspired by the classic 19th-century poem ‘A Visit from Saint Nicholas’ by Clement Clarke Moore, which was first published in 1823. This poem played a key role in the creation of the modern image of Santa Claus: a cheerful, somewhat chubby figure who goes from house to house on Christmas Eve at night with a sleigh and reindeer – with names like Dasher, Dancer, and Donner & Blitzen – to drop gifts via the chimney into stockings above the fireplace.
The poem built on the tradition of Saint Nicholas, the holy bishop whom we know as Sinterklaas. Dutch colonists took their Sinterklaas traditions to New York, the former New Amsterdam. There, “Sinterklaas” evolved linguistically into “Santa Claus”.
Cirque du Soleil now brings this rich story to life on stage, and gives it a new dimension with spectacular acts that will charm every generation.
About the performance
Cirque du Soleil productions delight millions of theatergoers around the world annually. With 'Twas the Night Before..., the company presents a full-fledged Christmas show for the first time. Unforgettable lines from this beloved story formed the inspiration for Cirque's moving story about a cynical girl who rediscovers the magic of the holidays.
In a festive atmosphere of love and joy, specially created for families, 'Twas the Night Before... brings the impressive acrobatics that made Cirque du Soleil world-famous. From a compelling straps duo with aerial acrobatics and spectacular hoop diving, to hair acrobatics that defy gravity and energetic dance – performed by a cast of 26 artists from all over the world. The show also contains sympathetic characters and a soundtrack with reinterpretations of Christmas classics.
With something for every member of the family, 'Twas the Night Before... is the perfect introduction for the next generation of theater lovers to the world of Cirque du Soleil. This brilliant production promises to create unforgettable memories for young and old.