Behind the Scenes with Saltibanco By Beatriz Acosta

Ever wonder what happens behind the stage and during rehearsals for a Cirque du Soleil show? ClickTheCity brings you behind the scenes of Saltimbanco in Manila with these exclusive photos. Have a sneak peek of the artist rehearsals, and what's beyond the Saltimbanco stage.

Cirque du Soleil opened its doors for select media during their very first rehearsal of Saltimbanco at the Mall of Asia Arena.

During rehearsals, artists are harnessed with safety equipment. During actual shows, these harnesses are not worn, explains Maxime Charbonneau, Cirque du Soleil Publicist.

Saltimbanco brings over 250 pairs of custom-made shoes wherever they set up a show! Some of these are repainted by hand before every performance.

Included on tour right now with Saltimbanco is Canadian-born Filipino guitarist Adrian Andres. He provides engaging live music for the show along with a band. Oh, and he loves adobo (who doesn't?).

Costumes are handmade by artisans in Montreal, Canada, and over 3,000 costumes travel city to city in over 50 road cases. Saltimbanco's equipment on tour totals 180 tons!

Don't miss out on Cirque du Soleil's vibrant signature production, its oldest and longest-running show, Saltimbanco. Experiencing a Cirque du Soleil performance is definitely a tick off one's bucket list! Their last show will be on August 19, Sunday. Tickets are available now at www.cirquedusoleil.com/saltimbanco, www.hoopla.ph or www.smtickets.com or by calling 320-1111 or 470-2222. Tickets can also be purchased at the Manila Hotel concierge and at the box office.