André Simard, C.M.
Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Quebec
André Simard has taken aerial acts to new heights. This former Olympian gymnast and coach became internationally renowned as an acrobatic choreographer, notably with the Cirque du Soleil for 25 years. His invention of the secure safety-line system and discovery of aerial silks revolutionized trapeze acts into an art form. His creativity and innovation continue to amaze audiences and have contributed to the Cirque’s success as one of the greatest entertainment businesses in the world.