Q&A with 'Twas director James Hadley
What is your role in ‘Twas the Night Before…? I am the director and writer of Cirque du Soleil's first holiday show and it’s a true honor!
How did you get your start in live entertainment, and how did it help you create Cirque du Soleil’s first holiday show, ‘Twas the Night Before…? I’ve been involved in the performing arts for as long as I can remember. My very first time on stage was actually in a Christmas show, “The Nutcracker with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens”, when I was just a kid. Later, I moved to New York City and spent many years performing on Broadway before joining Cirque du Soleil, where I oversaw the artistic quality of their North American shows, including “O,” “Mystère”, and “La Nouba”. I’ve always loved the holidays, so when Cirque approached me to direct their first Christmas show, I jumped at the opportunity. It felt like everything I’d done up to that point – dance, theatre, storytelling, and my love of Christmas – was leading to this project.
For anyone who hasn’t seen it, what can audiences expect when attending ‘Twas the Night Before…, and what makes it such a special holiday experience? Audiences can expect a joyful, heart-warming show that blends the magic of Cirque with the spirit of Christmas. It’s full of incredible acrobatics, high-energy dancing, and stunning visuals, but at its core, it’s about family, love, and the magic of the holidays.
How is this production different from other Cirque du Soleil shows audiences may have seen? It’s presented in a theatrical setting, and it has a stronger storyline than many Cirque shows. We also have a troupe of dancers who serve as storytellers, guiding our lead character on her journey through the show. It’s very much a blend of theatre, dance, and circus.
What inspired your approach to reimagining this timeless holiday poem for Cirque du Soleil’s stage? I grew up with the poem, but when I revisited it many years later, I noticed so many passages I had forgotten… beautiful, evocative imagery that sparked ideas for the acts and characters. Rather than retelling the poem word for word, I used it as inspiration, almost like a creative springboard, to build a magical world that captures the feeling of wonder and anticipation in the poem.
How long did it take to bring ‘Twas the Night Before… from concept to stage, and what was the biggest creative challenge along the way? I was fortunate to work with such an experienced and passionate team of Cirque designers. From the very start, there was a wonderful energy in the room. Everyone wanted to capture the magic of the holidays in a way only Cirque could. Our goal was simple: to celebrate the season with heart, wonder, and artistry.
Do you think this is a show that audiences of all ages can enjoy together? Absolutely. Kids are mesmerized by the visuals and acrobatics, and adults connect with the nostalgia and emotion of the story. It’s designed to be something families and friends can share… and hopefully, something that becomes part of their holiday traditions.
If audiences could walk away with one feeling or message after seeing the show, what would you hope that is? I hope it gives people a break from the stress of the season and lets them feel the joy and magic of Christmas again. If they leave smiling and feeling just a little more connected to the people they came with. That’s everything!
Eggnog or hot cocoa? Hot cocoa—always.
Real tree or artificial? Real. You can’t beat that smell.
Favorite Christmas movie? Definitely “Elf”. It’s silly, funny, and has so much heart.
Favorite Christmas song? Carol of the Bells. It’s mysterious and thrilling, just what you need for an acrobatic act.
Three words that describe ‘Twas the Night Before… Colorful, joyful, magical.