Montreal, May 25, 2010 - Cirque Éloize is pleased to announce the signing of a strategic partnership with Cirque du Soleil. This partnership will promote the implementation of Cirque Éloize's development strategy, enabling it to enhance its visibility on the international market.

"The partnership with Cirque du Soleil bodes very well for the future of Cirque Éloize, which is arriving at a crossroad in its history. It will enable us to solidify our role as a leader in the creation and marketing of contemporary theatre-based circus performances that combine theatricality and the circus acts. We are proud to have Cirque du Soleil as one of our partners," stated Jeannot Painchaud, President and General Director of Cirque Éloize.

"Our strategic partnership with Cirque Éloize is above all a business decision that will strengthen Québec's position as the world capital of the circus arts. This partnership affirms our respect for the unique creative force of Cirque Éloize and firmly shows our support for the existing team, as well as its vision and potential for growth. We also plan to share with our new partner the international business expertise that we've acquired over the years," said Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil.

Cirque Éloize has made a name for itself in recent years on the international stage, particularly in Asia. "New markets are opening up to our current and future productions. This partnership with Cirque du Soleil will enable us to take full advantage of these promising markets, and its spinoffs will continue to benefit all of Quebec," continued Mr. Painchaud.

Under this agreement, Cirque Éloize will continue to promote the revival of the circus arts while reaffirming its leadership role in creating shows that can easily travel the globe. Two Cirque Éloize productions, Rain and Nebbia, are currently touring Europe and Latin America.

The world premiere of iD, Cirque Éloize's new creation written and directed by Jeannot Painchaud, will officially kick off the new festival Montréal Complètement Cirque on July 8, 2010 in the Old Port of Montreal. iD will run until July 25, 2010. For more information on Cirque Éloize and its shows, visit www.cirque-eloize.com/en

About Cirque Éloize
Founded in 1993, Montreal-based Cirque Éloize combines the circus arts with music, dance and theatre in ground-breaking and original ways. Continually striving for artistic perfection, it is a world leader in the contemporary circus arts. With seven original productions to its credit, Cirque Éloize has presented more than 3,000 performances in 375 cities and 30 countries around the world. In addition to its touring shows, Cirque Éloize develops personalized concepts for international special events.

For information:
Nicole Bouchard
nbouchard@cirque-eloize.com
Communications Director, Cirque Éloize
514 596-3838, ext. 240