The Cirque du Soleil crew is in mourning following a tragic accident last night that claimed the life of one of their long-time performers.
During a performance of the VOLTA show in Tampa, Florida, Yann Arnaud was doing an aerial straps number and fell onto the stage.
Emergency procedures were immediately performed and he was transported to the closest hospital, but unfortunately, he later succumbed to his injuries.
“The entire Cirque du Soleil family is in shock and devastated by this tragedy. Yann had been with us for over 15 years and was loved by all who had the chance to know him,” said Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group.
“Over the coming days and weeks, our focus will be on supporting Yann’s family and our employees, especially the VOLTA team, as we go through these difficult times together.”
Yann’s sudden death has resulted in the cancellation of two VOLTA shows that were scheduled for today. Cirque du Soleil says they are gathering more information about the incident and are offering “full and transparent collaboration” to the authorities as they look into the circumstances of Arnaud’s death.
