Guy Laliberté's ‘Cirque Du Soleil’
John Dabrowski
Mental Resilience Expert | International Speaker | Trainer | Author | Stress Management Expert
This week, I was privileged to deliver my new masterclass on ‘Increased Productivity’ to a Vistage Group run by co-chairs Peter Hills and Claire Farley. I have previously worked with both outstanding Chairs, delivering my Mental Resilience masterclass.
This is a massive milestone for me, as developing a unique and impactful masterclass in this competitive business arena is very difficult. I was inspired to create this masterclass by the impact of the one-on-one coaching I continue to deliver for various organisations, including Lake District Estate staff, championed by CEO David Little.
My increased productivity techniques have made a massive difference to the staff I have coached. They achieve more in less time, are well organised, have proper breaks and lunchtimes, and, most importantly, stop working in the evenings and weekends.
It took blood, sweat and tears.
So, after more than a year in the making, I was delighted to deliver this masterclass to Peter and Claire’s group. The feedback was so impressive that Peter and Claire confirmed they want me to deliver this session to their other Vistage Groups.
What a fantastic endorsement! It reminds me of the break that Peter Hills gave me ten years ago. At that time, I was starting my business, and I attended an event where some Chairs from various business groups were present. I had 20 minutes to present my session as a taster.
In the end, no one was interested in booking me except for one person who saw some potential and booked me for his group. Peter was that man, and I believe that if he hadn’t given me this break, I might have given up on my dream of being a speaker. Thank you, Peter, for that moment that changed the course of my life.
Innovation, Risk Taking and Creativity
I came across this true-life story about the originator of the world-famous Cirque Du Soleil. At one point, he was homeless but ended up a multi-billionaire. He used innovation, risk-taking, and creativity to produce something new that the public adored.
Cirque Du Soleil
Guy Laliberté's life story is a fascinating tale of creativity, entrepreneurship, and bold risks that led to the creation of one of the world's most famous entertainment companies, Cirque du Soleil. Here’s a detailed account of his journey:
Early Life and Beginnings
Guy Laliberté was born in Quebec City, Canada, on September 2, 1959. From an early age, he was drawn to the world of entertainment. He was a street performer, playing accordion, walking on stilts, and swallowing fire. His parents, both professionals, supported his unconventional ambitions.
The Birth of Cirque du Soleil
In the early 1980s, Laliberté and fellow street performers, including Gilles Ste-Croix, decided to create a new kind of circus. Traditional circuses were declining in popularity, and Laliberté saw an opportunity to reinvent the art form.
They wanted to create a circus without animals, focusing instead on human performances, storytelling, and theatrical flair. In 1984, with financial support from the Quebec government to commemorate the 450th anniversary of Jacques Cartier's discovery of Canada, Laliberté co-founded Cirque du Soleil.
The first show, "Le Grand Tour du Cirque du Soleil," was a huge success in Quebec. It combined acrobatics, music, and a narrative structure, setting the tone for future productions.
Expansion and Global Success
After the initial success in Quebec, Laliberté took a significant risk by taking Cirque du Soleil to Los Angeles in 1987. The gamble paid off, and the show was a hit. This marked the beginning of Cirque du Soleil's global expansion.
Over the years, Laliberté and his team created numerous successful shows, each with its unique theme, style, and music. Still, all maintained the high artistic and acrobatic standards that became the company's hallmark.
Challenges and Innovations
Cirque du Soleil's rapid growth came with challenges. Managing the creative process while expanding globally was challenging. Laliberté was known for his hands-on approach and ability to balance the company's artistic and business sides.
He was involved in every aspect of the production, from the initial concept to the final performance. One of Laliberté's most significant innovations was the creation of permanent shows in Las Vegas, starting with "Mystère" at Treasure Island in 1993.
This move revolutionised the entertainment industry in Las Vegas and contributed to Cirque du Soleil's financial stability and long-term success.
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Personal Ventures and Space Travel
Laliberté's success with Cirque du Soleil made him one of Canada's wealthiest individuals. He used his wealth to pursue personal passions, including philanthropy and poker. In 2007, he founded the One Drop Foundation, which aims to provide access to clean water worldwide.
2009, Laliberté became the first Canadian space tourist, spending 11 days aboard the International Space Station. He paid $35 million for the trip and used the opportunity to raise awareness for water-related issues.
Sale of Cirque du Soleil and Later Life
In 2015, after more than 30 years at the helm of Cirque du Soleil, Laliberté sold a majority stake in the company to a consortium led by U.S. private equity firm TPG Capital, Chinese investment firm Fosun, and Quebec's pension fund manager, Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec. Laliberté retained a small stake and continued to be involved in the company’s creative direction for some time.
After the sale, Laliberté focused more on his philanthropic work and personal projects, including his foundation and a private luxury island in French Polynesia, where he pursued creative ventures.
Legacy
Guy Laliberté's legacy is immense. He transformed the global circus industry and created an entertainment empire that has brought joy to millions worldwide. His story is a testament to the power of creativity, risk-taking, and innovation.
Laliberté's journey from street performer to billionaire entrepreneur is an inspiring tale of what can be achieved with vision, passion, and determination. Cirque du Soleil symbolises his enduring impact on the entertainment world.
Here are the three lessons from Guy Laliberté's Cirque du Soleil with life applications:
Innovation: Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Whether in your career or personal life, look for ways to improve or reinvent the norm. Fresh perspectives can lead to unique opportunities.
Risk-Taking: Take calculated risks to pursue your goals. Success often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Weigh the potential benefits against the risks and be willing to make bold moves when necessary.
Balance Creativity and Business: Combine passion with practicality. Pursue your creative interests or personal goals, but also plan strategically. Balancing dreams with a solid plan increases your chances of long-term success.
Thoughts for the week.
1. Are there any areas you can innovate in your work or personal life?
2. How do you view risk? Do you avoid it, or is this something you can consider?
3. Can you combine a passion for something with business? If you can, you will have a much better chance of success.
Well, that’s it for this week. Have a wonderful weekend, and keep believing.
Warm regards
John