Season 1

2002 · 13 episodes · 6h 30m in all

This 2003 13-episode television series offers an intimate look into the dreams, trials and aspirations of a core group of performers involved in the creation and launch of "Varekai" by Cirque du Soleil. Fire Within begins eight months prior to opening-night when it remains to be seen how the performers, who have come from around the world, will survive the enormous physical and emotional demands placed upon them. Throughout the captivating series, cameras document the human experience - the drama and comedy, the victories and setbacks-and, above all, the desire to succeed that burns within these extraordinary individuals.

1. Episode 1
16 Sept 2002 · 30 min
New Arrivals - Artists from around the world arrive at the Cirque du Soleil headquarters in Montreal. They are quickly introduced to their new realities. Will everyone be able to adapt to this challenging environment?
2. Episode 2
23 Sept 2002 · 30 min
Behind Closed Doors - The characters' stories unfold as the focus turns to their personal lives. Gareth is already on his way back home to England. Does he plan on returning to Cirque du Soleil?
3. Episode 3
30 Sept 2002 · 30 min
The Rise and Fall of the Trapeze - Artists prepare their acts for the first presentation to the creative team. Stella and Raquel's act is the unfortunate focus of the team's attention.
4. Episode 4
7 Oct 2002 · 30 min
Shooting Stars - It is officially time for the artists to join Cirque du Soleil. Kevin and Andrew question certain clauses in their contracts and hesitate before signing.
5. Episode 5
14 Oct 2002 · 30 min
The Holiday Season - The holidays bring a more intimate look into the characters as they reflect on their lives and relationships outside Cirque du Soleil. Meanwhile Olga, a world-renowned equilibrist, is offered a starring role in the show.
6. Episode 6
21 Oct 2002 · 30 min
New Year, New Blood, New Challenges - For the first time, the entire cast is assembled. Adrian, a Romanian singer, as well as several world-renowned artists join the team. Competition intensifies as egos are challenged.
7. Episode 7
28 Oct 2002 · 30 min
Pushing Acrobatics - Everyone feels the pressure throughout the endless training process. Insecurities are revealed as the characters push themselves to meet individual expectations. Raquel and Stella's act is yet to be approved.
8. Episode 8
4 Nov 2002 · 30 min
Moving On - Construction on the Grand Chapiteau is underway. Gareth and Ashely are stressed as they are told that they are on the verge of being replaced.
9. Episode 9
11 Nov 2002 · 30 min
The Grand Chapiteau - The first rehearsal under the blue-and-yellow Grand Chapiteau takes place. The artists must adjust to this new and unfamiliar environment. Kevin and Andrew provide a preview of the show at the official press conference.
10. Episode 10
18 Nov 2002 · 30 min
The Lion's Den - Excitement is in the air as the artists perform in front of a live audience for the very first time. Nonetheless, devastating news awaits several of them. Who will be cut and who will stay?
11. Episode 11
25 Nov 2002 · 30 min
Countdown To Premiere - As tensions mount even higher, the last dress rehearsal is performed. Last-minute changes are made. Will Olga meet expectations in a lead role?
12. Episode 12
2 Dec 2002 · 30 min
Opening Night - Journalists, photographers and special guests attend the world premiere of "Varekai". How will the new show be received?
13. Episode 13
9 Dec 2002 · 30 min
The Aftermath and Departure - A series of dramatic adjustments are imposed. For some, it's the end of a dream, for others they are entering a new world that holds discovery, difficulty and excitement.