DURHAM, N.C. — If you’re searching for some fun for the family now that the holidays are here, you don’t have to travel to Las Vegas to catch Cirque du Soleil’s seasonal show.  



What You Need To Know

  • "TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE…" is Cirque du Soleil's first-ever holiday show

  • Multiple shows will be performed at the Durham Performing Arts Center

  • The shows will run through Dec. 15

  • The show is family friendly for all ages

"TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE…" is Cirque du Soleil’s first holiday show, filled with the high-flying acts that fans have come to know and love, but with a sweet seasonal twist.  

Spectrum News 1 went behind the scenes of the show to sit in on dress rehearsals and see firsthand what makes this experience so special. 

(Credit: Kyle Flubacker, MSG Entertainment)

Walking into the cool theater at the Durham Performing Arts Center, the dancers were in full-blown dress rehearsal for the show. On that day, the director was focused on one singular act, meticulously breaking down every move performers made. 

This is the detail and focus that goes into making even the traveling Cirque du Soleil shows, like TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE..., so impressive. 

Made up of performers from around the world, the show features incredible dancing, a woman who performs and hangs from her hair, stunts performed on skates, rings and even a juggling act. 

Audiences are young and old alike with toddlers, their parents and even grandparents filling the seats.  

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE… was inspired by the classic poem: “A Visit from Saint Nicolas." It tells the story of a jaded young girl who finds the wonder and joy of the holidays again. It's a message dancers said they're excited to share with people in North Carolina. 

Dancers said they love traveling the country to share the joy of the holidays and are happy to make Durham their temporary home. 

Cirque du Soleil’s holiday masterpiece continues its run at the Durham Performing Arts Center through Sunday, Dec. 15. 

Visit the DPAC’s website for showtimes and ticket information.