Abstract

The case discusses the HR practices of Cirque du Soleil (Cirque), the Canada based circus entertainment company. Since its inception in the mid-1980s, Cirque had been known for its innovation and creativity. In 2007, Cirque had more than 3,000 employees representing 40 nationalities and 25 languages. To manage such a diverse workforce, it had a dynamic HR team. The case highlights the recruitment & selection, training, performance appraisal, culture and work environment at Cirque. It also examines how Cirque managed cultural diversity of its workforce.

Learning Objectives

The case is structured to achieve the following Learning Objectives:

• Study the HR practices at Cirque including recruitment, selection, training and performance appraisal. Examine the importance of a strategic HR team in Cirque. Critically examine the work culture and environment in a creative company like Cirque.

Keywords

Cirque du Soleil, Human Resource Management, Crossroads Program, Recruitment & Selection, Training, Performance Appraisal, Work Culture, Work environment, Cultural Diversity, Decentralized HR System, Teamwork, Cultural Adaptation, Work/Life Balance, Employee Assistance Program, Corporate Communication