Cirque du Soleil returns to King County’s Marymoor Park in 2008 with Corteo

Continuing a tradition of innovation and partnerships, King County Parks will welcome the popular Cirque du Soleil theatrical circus back to Marymoor Park near Redmond in 2008 with Corteo.

"Cirque du Soleil offers world-class entertainment, and we're very happy to welcome this highly acclaimed troupe back to Marymoor Park," said Tom Koney, King County Parks Deputy Director. "This partnership not only helps improve King County Parks' bottom line, but it also brings tremendous economic benefits to the surrounding community."

In 2006, Cirque's Varekai at Marymoor Park brought more than $550,000 in gross revenue to King County Parks, helping support maintenance and operations. Millions more in economic activity was created within Redmond and adjacent communities. Drawing more than 130,000 visitors for 53 performances, the Varekai shows at Marymoor Park were Cirque du Soleil most successful West Coast dates.

Corteo, which means "cortege" in Italian, is a joyous procession, a festive parade imagined by a clown. The show brings together the passion of the actor with the grace and power of the acrobat to plunge the audience into a theatrical world of fun, comedy and spontaneity situated in a mysterious space between heaven and earth.

Corteo is scheduled to begin its run at Marymoor Park April 24, 2008. Cirque Club members have exclusive online access to purchase Corteo tickets starting Wednesday, Oct. 24 at 9 a.m. at www.cirquedusoleil.com. Membership is free and registration is simple and quick. For details, including ticket information and general on sale dates, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com.

Generating revenue by increasing park amenities is one of the creative solutions King County has successfully pursued to keep parks open and well maintained. Through the county's entrepreneurial program, King County has focused on partnerships as a way to enhance recreation while limiting costs.

King County Parks - Your Big Backyard - offers more than 25,000 acres of parks and natural lands, including such regional treasures as Marymoor Park and Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, 175 miles of regional trails, plus pools and a world-class aquatic center. By cultivating strong relationships with non-profit, corporate and community partners, King County Parks enhances park amenities while reducing costs. Learn more at www.kingcounty.gov/parks/.