The Pivot: Episode 3 – Can’t Stop an Artist From Being an Artist with No Stage No Problem
The Pivot is an interview series created to highlight those in our industry who have learned to pivot and find a new way forward during the unique challenges caused by the 2020 pandemic. In each episode, Andy Buchanan & Laura-Ann Chong adhere to the advice and share stories from guests in hopes that The Pivot may inspire you and hopefully shine some light on your new normal. Projet LUMIÈRE Project is pleased to partner with CircusTalk for this five-part series.
Their name says it all. We sat down with a trailblazing group formerly touring with Cirque du Soleil who realized that performing as we knew it might take a while to return– and found a solution. The members of No Stage No Problem were the first to preserve live entertainment throughout the early days of the pandemic when in April 2020 they created an internationally streamed performing arts show that gave artists the chance to perform again, while contributing to their global community. Circus artists, dancers and musicians around the globe streamed two shows from their backyards, kitchens and national parks accumulating over 2,500 views and raising over $3,500 to donate to organizations for social causes. Find out how they came up with the initiative to adapt to a virtual experience and what they learned from taking on such a challenge.
The Pivot co-creator Laura-Ann Chong was on tour performing in Cirque du Soleil’s big top show, Amaluna for the past seven years across three continents. She transitioned out of elite gymnastics competing internationally for Team Canada before joining the Amazons of Amaluna. While on tour, she was the chair of the tour’s Social Committee and assistant to the tour’s publicist. During the pandemic, Laura-Ann co-founded Projet Lumière Project and completed her public relations certificate to further her new career. She coaches aerial pole at The Circus Lab in Vancouver, Canada mentoring her students as well as aspiring gymnasts.
The Pivot co-creator Andy Buchanan has over 22 years of experience in the entertainment industry. He is a co-founder of Projet Lumière Project and most recently co-founded his new business, Creative Athletic Performance. Andy is currently a professional skater with the UK television show, Dancing on Ice. He was an artist on Cirque du Soleil’s first ice show, Crystal and Cirque’s second ice show, Axel. Along with being a performer, Andy was the Talent Scout for Ice Skating at Cirque du Soleil. He continues to work with world level competitive skaters as a coach, choreographer and mentor.
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