KNIE - The Circus Musical
The Story of a Dynasty
The story of the Knie dynasty is marked by highs and lows — great achievements and heavy setbacks, romantic love stories. The Knies reflect the history of their time — even before the founding of the National Circus in 1919. They experienced the reorganization of Europe through the Congress of Vienna in 1815, went through wars and turmoil, and were lifted again by the economic miracle of the 20th century.
Blood is thicker than water. But family idylls are often clouded. In no generation are all members always in agreement. Still (or perhaps because of this), the Swiss National Circus sets standards — especially in humane animal training. Their horse and elephant acts gain worldwide fame. In every generation, there is a forward-thinker and leader. Those who cannot live with this must leave. Family members regularly leave the company. The central figure is Fredy Knie Sr. (1920 - 2003) — the patron of the fifth generation and the pioneer for the modern circus.
Visions constantly drove Rolf Knie, especially with the 100th anniversary of Circus Knie in mind.
The versatile artist decided on a groundbreaking project for Switzerland — a circus musical. In spectacular productions, the history of the Swiss National Circus from 1803 to the sixth generation is authentically presented with musical depth and circus playfulness: "Switzerland has never seen such a musical," says Rolf Knie, who, as producer, director, and screenwriter, holds all the reins. In such a long family history, there have always been great emotions, he says – that the circus has managed to endure all the highs and lows is a great achievement: "That’s why I want to create a monument to the whole family with this musical," says Knie.
In this elaborate production, where the passage of time is reflected, among other things, in 230 different costumes, he was able to build on his Winter Circus: "The musical is essentially an evolution of Salto Natale. The biggest challenge was coordinating the dancers, performers, and actors," says Knie. The lead roles are played by international musical stars Alexander Klaus and Florian Schneider. The music was composed by Grison singer and composer Patrick Scott, with lyrics written by Peter Pfändler – and the man responsible for the special effects is French illusionist Dani Lary. "Dani created and produced 16 new magic tricks just for our show," says Knie. In doing so, the magician defies gravity. He makes a grand piano float through the Chapiteau and plays the keys upside down.
For Rolf Knie, the creation of the musical was also a reflection of his own past. One of the central roles in the piece is dedicated to his father, Fredy Knie Sr.: "In modern times, he was the most important figure for the circus." The look into the changing history is adorned with many colors, impressive images, and grand sounds. The circus musical showcases Circus Knie as it was during its heyday — and as it hopefully will still be in 100 years: poetic, magical, musical — circus fantastic.
Impressions of KNIE - The Circus Musical
Salto Natale
With Ohlala and Salto Natale, Rolf Knie has created two new circus concepts – four weeks in the autumn and six weeks during the Advent and Christmas season.
"The modern circus is stationary and takes place during the winter months," says Knie.
In doing so, he deliberately follows a different direction than Circus Knie. There, his father Fredy Knie left behind a perfectly functioning business: "I like to compare my father to Picasso – both were ahead of their time and are unmatched. That's why Gregory and I had to go down a different path."
Impressions of Salto Natale
Ohlala
With passion, imagination, finesse, and style, Gregory and Rolf Knie produced "Ohlala – SEXY – CRAZY – ARTISTIC" for the first time in 2011.
Rarely has the announcement of a new program generated as much attention as "Ohlala – SEXY – CRAZY – ARTISTIC".
The 28 artists, dancers, comedians, and musicians, who will perform in Dübendorf in September as part of "Ohlala – The Love Circus," tell exciting and stimulating stories in their own unique ways. They come from all over the world. They tell of love and desire, truth and deception, dreams to be lived, and secrets that can be shared. And the audience can experience all these beautiful emotions up close.
More Video Impressions
