Cirque du Soleil’s Global Human Resource Management Practices

Montreal-based entertainment company Cirque du Soleil (Cirque), which started in 1984 as a small group of young street performers, went on to become a worldwide entertainment giant with more than 4,000 employees. These included 1,300 performers from 50 different countries. Cirque’s big-budget, animal-free circuses included a narrative framework, opera, and theater, with lavish costumes, huge sets, original music, and high-tech special effects. No spoken language was used in its shows, and so they were able to reach diverse audiences. Close to 150 million spectators in nearly 300 cities worldwide were reported to have seen a Cirque show since 1984 and about 15 million people watched its show in 2014.

Through its strong culture of risk taking and creativity, Cirque became a leader in artistic entertainment. It offered a creative work environment where artists were free to express their thoughts and grow both professionally and personally. The culture was open and family oriented. Artists were offered a competitive salary, a safe work environment, and support for their health and well-being. Other benefits included group insurance, a pension plan, travel and health benefits, and paid holidays...