By: Ashmar Mandou

First-generation circus artista from Monterrey, México, Eduardo Garcia discovered his passion for artistry and performance at a young age from watching world-renowned artist and jugglar Anthony Gatto. Garcia began training in acrobatics and tightrope walking at 14 years-old. He quickly taught himself to juggle, practicing everyday, and at the age of 18 years-old left high school to pursue the circus full-time.

Garcia will soon dazzle the Chicago audience with his talent as he joins Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Twas The Night Before this December. With something for everyone in the family to enjoy, ‘Twas the Night Before… is the perfect introduction for the next generation of theatergoers to the incredible world of Cirque du Soleil. Garcia shares what people can expect from the show and advice for young artists aspiring to follow suit.

Lawndale News: We are just a few months away from the premiere of Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Twas the Night Before.’ The show will premiere at the prestigious Chicago Theatre. What are you most excited for audiences to see?
Eduardo Garcia: I’m excited for them to see the magic in the concept of this Christmas production, which is made for the whole family, where they can find spectacular acts, different and original costumes, and lots of fun choreography.

LN: You have acting and art in your blood, since your great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather were part of the circus at the beginning of the 20th century. Did you learn anything from their performances that you incorporate into your own routine?
EG: I didn’t have the opportunity to see any performances or videos from his time, but the little time I spent with my great-grandfather, he was a very cheerful and irreverent person, always playing little jokes on the family, so I think that has been a great legacy for me.

LN: What does the circus have that fills you with joy?
EG: The circus has a feeling that’s difficult to define in a few words. Only those who have experienced it on stage can truly feel it. For me, the circus has been more than a way of life. What fills me with joy is seeing the smile on the audience’s faces while performing.

LN: You said that during your childhood, you were influenced by the world-renowned juggler Anthony Gatto. Why?
EG: Because it was the moment I saw someone different from what I had normally seen in other jugglers. That’s when it clicked in my mind to want to join the circus.

LN: What can people expect from Cirque du Soleil’s “Twas the Night Before?”
EG: Magic, energy, laughter, and a feeling of hope.

LN: For young artists who aspire to follow in your footsteps and one day join a Cirque du Soleil production, what advice would you give them?
EG: Never stop dreaming, combined with daily effort and discipline.

Tickets for ‘Twas the Night Before… at The Chicago Theatre start at $39 when purchased in person at the Ticketmaster Box Office at The Chicago Theatre and at $51 when purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com.

Photo Credit: Kyle Flubacker MSG Entertainment
Photo Credit: Eduardo Garcia Garza