In a recent interview, senior artistic director Luc Tremblay of Cirque du Soleil’s “Kooza” show, now playing in Atlanta, explained the motivation behind the show and what producers look for when casting performers.

Q: What inspired you to create “Kooza?”

A: Kooza is a Sanskrit word meaning “small box.” This is a circus within a box. The box is presented to the main character, The Innocent, and inside is a trickster who plays tricks on The Innocent while revealing incredible acts and dreamlike scenes.

Q: What have people said about “Kooza?”

A: We’ve had an incredible reaction. I think in recent history, it’s one of our most successful. In Montreal, we got standing ovations three or four times throughout the show, and we’ve gotten similar reactions in America. It’s a show for everybody.

Q: How do you manage the actors with their characters?

A: We try to use their strengths to develop the characters. The acrobats are athletes. Their skills are incredible.

Q: Describe how the actors portray the story of “Kooza.”

A: It is a true pantomime because there is no spoken text, but when a character is presented to The Innocent, it’s his physical reaction — the way he will look at what’s being presented — that he gives back to the audience. Very often, we’ve seen that our nonverbal shows are easier to understand because sometimes, with our actors from different countries, their accents are hard to understand.

Q: What does it take to become a Cirque du Soleil actor?

A: It takes craft and dedication because it is a commitment. Performers are on tour almost all year, and they perform between eight and 10 shows a week. And to try to be able to show the same emotions to the audience show after show requires skill.

Q: How many try out each year?

A: Thousands of people. We not only go and audition people, but they also send us their tapes. Currently, with 17 shows, we have more than 1,000 artists. When I need to replace an artist, casting may present me with four to five replacements. They search all over the world.

Q: The artists must have many skills, but if you could name one thing you’re looking for when hiring a new artist, what is it?

A: Above their own skills as acrobats, actors or musicians, it’s the feeling they have, a certain energy. Can they convey what we’re asking for? People that fear to express themselves are not hired.