Until March 29, 2026, Marseille becomes the theater of a parallel world. With OVO, Cirque du Soleil transforms the Palais des Sports in Marseille into a giant hive, buzzing with life and color.
This show, whose name means "egg" in Portuguese, is an ode to biodiversity. On stage, insects become heroes: acrobatic ants, aerial butterflies, flying crickets… All in a visual and sound explosion where every detail is meticulously planned.
Since its creation, OVO has captivated more than 7 million spectators worldwide. But behind this magic lies an impressive mechanism.
Impossible to overlook: when Cirque du Soleil arrives, an entire small city moves.
- 21 trucks
- Nearly 100 people on tour
- 25 nationalities represented
Behind the scenes, the organization is worthy of an international expedition. Costuming, laundry, gym, rest areas… everything is designed to recreate a complete living environment.
"We travel with our own ecosystem," explains Janie Mallet, press officer. "The costumes are designed in Montreal, at Cirque du Soleil's headquarters, in one of the largest workshops in the world. Each piece is custom-made."
On stage, the costumes amaze. Behind the scenes, they live a second life.
Five technicians accompany the troupe at all times. Their mission? Inspect, repair, and maintain each outfit after every performance.
Because here, nothing is left to chance: a tear, a weakened seam, and an entire act can be compromised.
Another fascinating feature: the artists do their own makeup.
Each character has its own visual code. The artists learn to reproduce their makeup with precision - a daily ritual that lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.
This moment marks a transition: the moment when the artist becomes a creature.
Behind the poetry, a demanding reality: that of high-level athletes.
The days are punctuated by physical training, rehearsals, rigorous warm-ups before each performance, but also moments of conviviality!
Beyond the performance, OVO also tells a human story. That of a cosmopolitan troupe, united by a common passion.
In the shadow of the stage, everyone plays an essential role in making the magic happen. And when the lights go out, it's not just a show that ends - it's an entire world folding its wings, ready to be reborn elsewhere.
Report by Pauline Alcina,
Photos by Eric La - Messire Ouistiti
