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How Much Do Cirque du Soleil Performers Make?

Published in Cirque du Soleil Salaries 3 mins read

Cirque du Soleil performers, known as Artists, can earn a substantial income, with the average annual salary for an Artist being approximately $87,106. However, this figure can vary based on several factors, including the specific role, experience level, and the nature of the show.

Becoming a Cirque du Soleil performer is a highly competitive and demanding endeavor, requiring exceptional skill, dedication, and often years of specialized training in various disciplines such as acrobatics, gymnastics, dance, music, or clowning.

Understanding Performer Salaries at Cirque du Soleil

While the average for an Artist is a strong indicator, it's important to understand the broader context of compensation within the company, as salaries can differ significantly across various positions. For example, average annual salaries within Cirque du Soleil can range from around $36,000 for roles like Assistant Supervisor to the higher average for Artists.

Here's a snapshot of average annual salaries for key roles:

Role Average Annual Salary
Artist (Performer) $87,106
Assistant Supervisor $36,000

Note: These figures represent approximate averages and actual compensation may vary.

Factors Influencing a Performer's Pay

Several elements contribute to how much a Cirque du Soleil performer makes:

  • Skill Set and Specialty: Highly specialized or unique acts, such as elite aerialists, contortionists, or top-tier acrobats, may command higher salaries due to the rarity and difficulty of their skills.
  • Experience Level: Performers with extensive experience, a proven track record, and the ability to handle multiple roles or complex acts often receive higher compensation.
  • Show Type and Location:
    • Touring Shows: Performers in touring shows might receive additional allowances for travel, housing, and per diems, which supplement their base salary. These contracts often involve extensive travel schedules.
    • Resident Shows: Performers in resident shows (e.g., in Las Vegas or Orlando) typically have more stable living arrangements and may have different compensation structures, including benefits packages.
  • Contract Length and Negotiation: Salaries can be influenced by the length of the contract (short-term vs. long-term) and the performer's negotiation power, especially for renowned artists.
  • Role Complexity and Demand: Roles that require extreme physical endurance, high risk, or intricate artistic expression might be compensated more generously.
  • Benefits and Perks: Beyond the base salary, Cirque du Soleil often provides comprehensive benefits, which can include health insurance, housing assistance (especially for touring shows), travel expenses, and opportunities for professional development, adding significant value to the overall compensation package.

In essence, while the average salary for a Cirque du Soleil Artist is a good benchmark, individual earnings are tailored to the performer's unique contributions and the specific demands of their role within the spectacular world of Cirque du Soleil.