A look behind the scenes at Cirque du Soleil’s CRYSTAL, in Everett right now

I cannot prove this, but believe it to be true: Cirque du Soleil applied for, and was granted, an exemption from the laws of physics and gravity by the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics. Nothing else makes sense for how their shows operate, with performers whose bodies move in ways that don’t seem possible, and sets that seem to defy gravity.

I saw its latest touring show last night, CRYSTAL, at the Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett. It was outstanding, and Cirque’s first show done on ice. If you have any interest in figure skating or hockey, or just really gifted gymnasts, you would not regret going. It will be here through this weekend.

I was able to go behind the scenes and see what the environment is like when a show isn’t going on. Here’s what I learned: it’s like a self-contained city with places for exercising, doing laundry, and relaxing.

Here are a few photos I took while wandering around backstage:

Ouch.

Cirque du Soleil’s publicist Julie Desmarais shows the hockey-themed jersey some cast members will wear.

One of the locally-hired seamstresses, in the wardrobe room.

Hi mom!

Cirque du Soleil’s CRYSTAL runs through Sunday, April 14 in Everett. Tickets and more info can be found here:

General Events | Events & Tickets | Angel of the Winds Arena at Everett