Cirque du Soleil hosted an exclusive media preview during CMA Fest last week, offering a first look at their highly anticipated country-themed show, Songblazers.
Northwest Arkansas audiences can experience Songblazers in person when it comes to Walton Arts Center Nov. 27 - Dec. 1 for eight performances.
At the exclusive preview on June 5, journalists and photographers were treated to a sneak peek of the electrifying Honky Tony scene from the show. Attendees were captivated by the first look with many commentating that Songblazers successfully captured the true essence of a Honky Tonk, but with the added Cirque du Soleil flare.
The preview event included iconic country songs, “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus, “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” by Shania Twain, “Red Solo Cup” by Toby Keith and an original song crafted specifically for Songblazers. The original piece, titled “Carnival Heart,” was penned by the grandson of country legend Hank Williams, Sam Williams along with songwriters PJ Harding and Ned Houston. “Carnival Heart” is an evocative melody inspired by themes of self-discovery, friendship and hope.
Songblazers made its first public debut in front of a live audience on June 7 at Skydeck on Broadway. As part of the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck for the 2024 CMA Fest, Williams performed “Carnival Heart.” Williams also introduced a special performance by Songblazers that showcased an energetic bartender juggling red solo cups to Toby Keith’s hit single, “Red Solo Cup.”
Cirque du Soleil, in collaboration with Universal Music Group Nashville, is thrilled to present Songblazers. Written and directed by Amu Tinkham, this groundbreaking theatrical production pays homage to both legendary and contemporary trailblazers of country music. Songblazers charts the journey of two main characters as they strive for recognition in the country music scene, offering audiences an unforgettable experience filled with heart and determination.
Drawing inspiration from the rich legacy of country music, Songblazers celebrates the genre's historical icons while embracing the vibrant talents of today's artists. Audiences can expect to be enthralled by stunning acrobatics, awe-inspiring aerial acts and feats of extraordinary strength, all set to the backdrop of beloved country tunes.
Tickets for Songblazers at Walton Arts Center are $52-93 and are available now at waltonartscenter.org, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm.
Show Dates and Times
Wednesday, Nov. 27 at 7 pm
Friday, Nov. 29 at 3 and 7 pm
Saturday, Nov. 30 at 11:30 am, 3:30 and 7:30 pm
Sunday, Dec. 1 at 2 and 6 pm