AceShowbiz - Mark Cornell has been appointed as the new president and CEO of Cirque du Soleil, bringing extensive experience in luxury goods and live entertainment to the role. Previously, Mark Cornell served as CEO of ATG Entertainments, a prominent live theater operator in London's West End and on Broadway.

Cirque du Soleil has undergone significant changes in its leadership, with Daniel Lamarre stepping down as interim CEO and taking on the position of executive vice-chairman of the board. Daniel Lamarre will focus on business development for the global circus troupe, which is based in Montreal. Mark Cornell will assume the top job from November 17 and relocate to Montreal.

Mark Cornell boasts a strong background in consumer brand experience, having held executive positions at Moët Hennessy USA, Sotheby's Europe, and Krug Champagne. His arrival marks an important milestone in Cirque du Soleil's ambition to strengthen its global reach and enrich the experience it offers to audiences worldwide. As Gabriel de Alba and Jim Murren, co-chairs of the board at the Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, stated, "Mark Cornell embodies bold leadership and operational excellence."

Cirque du Soleil has faced significant challenges in recent years, with its stable of live shows globally heavily impacted by the pandemic and resulting global shutdown. However, after reopening its shows, the Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group has rebuilt its global brand. Mark Cornell expressed his excitement to join Cirque du Soleil, stating, "It is an honor to join Cirque du Soleil, a global icon of creativity and innovation. I have admired this brand for many years, not only for its artistic excellence, but for its ability to connect cultures and inspire audiences around the world."

As Mark Cornell takes the reins, he will collaborate with the talented teams in Montreal and across the globe to write the next chapter of Cirque du Soleil's extraordinary journey. With his extensive experience and bold leadership, Mark Cornell is poised to lead Cirque du Soleil to even greater heights, enriching the experience for audiences worldwide and solidifying the company's position as a global icon of creativity and innovation.