Abby Hartridge of Clayton, GA, and Monna Julkunen of Finland perform in “Cirque Synthethica’s” final number on the trapeze. Pictured, in back, are MaKenna Bilbery of Otto, NC, and Cyrus Manoogian of Rabun Gap, GA. (Photo by RGNS)
Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School premiered its one-of-a-kind Cirque performance, “Cirque Synthetica,” on the Rearden Stage on Oct. 26-28.
“Cirque Synthetica” was directed by Joshua Miller, Rabun Gap’s artistic director, and utilized the power of artificial intelligence and human creativity to create a unique storytelling experience.
Audiences raved about this year’s show, which featured Cirque performances on the trapeze, aerial silks, Cyr wheel, Spanish web, as well as traditional circus acts and bungee dancing.
Cyrus Manoogian of Rabun Gap, GA, performs on the Cyr wheel in “Cirque Synthetica” at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School. (Photo by RGNS)Aerialists MaKenna Bilbery of Otto, NC, Jasmine Abranyi of Highlands, NC, and Ivanna Zermeno of Santiago, Mexico, in Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School’s production of “Cirque Synthetica.” (Photo by RGNS)Abigail Brenner of Franklin, NC performs on the lyra in “Cirque Synthetica” at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School. (Photo by RGNS) From left, Sophia Moore of Highlands, NC, Lauren Eubanks of Lookout Mountain, GA, and Jansyn Davis of Marion, NC, perform on the triple trapeze in Rabun Gap Nacoochee School’s “Cirque Synthetica.” (Photo by RGNS)Allen Arbitter of Clayton, GA performs on the trapeze in “Cirque Synthetica” at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School. (Photo by RGNS) Anni Geren of Dillard, GA, and Cyrus Manoogian of Rabun Gap, GA, perform on the trapeze in “Cirque Synthetica” at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School. (Photo by RGNS) Performers take a bow at the close of “Cirque Synthetica” at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School. Pictured, center, is Elizabeth Brenner of Franklin, NC. (Photo by RGNS)
More than 70 students, from on-stage performers to technical crew, were involved in this year’s production.
Arts faculty members who led the show also included Selassie Alleyne, Rachel Chaves, Kimmie Gee, Mary Lauren Keeny, Terri Manoogian, and Joey Wade.
Rabun Gap is one of the only schools in the country with a Cirque program. Based on Cirque du Soleil, the program combines aerial acrobatics, circus arts, theatre, and dance to produce an original performance each year.
Upcoming performances for Rabun Gap arts include a Christmas Showcase on December 13 and the much-anticipated winter musical, “High School Musical,” on Feb. 8-10.
