Canada: Stéphane Lefebvre Named New President & CEO of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group

As was recently announced, Canada’s Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group has a new President and CEO at its helm: Stéphane Lefebvre (pictured r.) took over his new role on 1 December 2021. The former Chief Operating Officer, who is now responsible in particular for Cirque du Soleil’s (in short: CdS) continued growth in all markets, succeeds Daniel Lamarre (pictured l.), who will take on a new role as Executive Vice-Chairman of the Board. In this strategic role, Lamarre will leverage his relationships with key partners and communities to use his expertise and strong presence in the Montreal community to strengthen existing partnerships and drive new growth projects.

“While there was no specific timeframe for me passing the baton after 20 years building this amazing organization, I feel privileged to have contributed to the rebirth of Cirque du Soleil and feel now is the right time. There is no doubt in my mind that Stéphane Lefebvre, after being instrumental in the relaunch of our operations, is the ideal next leader to take Cirque du Soleil forward to the next stage in its evolution as a company founded on the conviction that the arts and business, together, can contribute to making a better world,“ said Daniel Lamarre.

“It is an honour for me to take the lead of this Quebec flagship company, one of the largest contemporary live entertainment producers of the world,” said Stéphane Lefebvre. “I feel very fortunate to have the chance to participate in the revival of our shows around the globe. I thank Daniel and the members of the Board of Directors for their trust and support. Daniel’s tireless enthusiasm and drive transformed our company, and his tremendous leadership is responsible for growing Cirque du Soleil into the proud entertainment industry leader it is today. I am very humbled to take on this role and continue to build on his legacy.“

With their combined expertise, Lefebvre and Lamarre’s future business goals include: the development of new revenue opportunities through strong media and entertainment relationships, a great reach and access to large audiences in new business markets, a strong commitment to Cirque du Soleil’s unique Quebec heritage and the creativity and imagination of its people, as well as expanded offerings to drive business growth with third-party intellectual property deals, increased licensing and digital media. (eap)