Ernst & Young secures marketing sponsorship with Canada's leading global success story, Cirque du Soleil®

New relationship compliments and highlights firm's commitment to entrepreneurs

TORONTO, April 19, 2012 /CNW/ - As audiences anticipate tonight's opening of Cirque du Soleil's newest creation — Amaluna — Ernst & Young announces a significant multi-year Canadian sponsorship with the renowned entertainment icon.

"A truly entrepreneurial organization in every sense of the word, Cirque du Soleil has spent almost three decades evolving a brilliant idea into a game-changing concept that amazes spectators worldwide," says Trent Henry, Ernst & Young's Chairman and CEO for Canada. "Our firm has a rich history of celebrating and working with entrepreneurs, and we are delighted to align ourselves with Cirque's unique and inventive brand."

The three-year Canadian agreement provides Ernst & Young with category exclusivity as an "Official Accounting and Business Advisory Sponsor" and comprises hospitality opportunities, employee benefits, one-of-a-kind experiences and special events for clients and staff. From creative on-site hosting to completely unique experiences, this sponsorship empowers the firm to connect our people and clients to the out-of-this-world experience that only Cirque can provide.

"We are very excited about this new sponsorship with Ernst & Young," says Mario D'Amico, Senior Vice President - Marketing at Cirque du Soleil. "Together, we are committed to creating enriched experiences for our respective audiences and to fostering the kind of diversity that drives inventive new ideas. Our organizations are committed to the belief that when you bring different perspectives and voices to the table, you can drive truly innovative results."

Henry agrees, saying Cirque's corporate values line up closely with Ernst & Young's, which was a major factor in the firm's sponsorship decision. "Our organizations believe in the power of the entrepreneurial spirit, inclusiveness and community engagement. Cirque artists and employees represent 100 occupations, 50 nationalities and 25 languages. They harness their collective talents to create a truly magical experience while giving back to the community. Given the breadth and depth of diversity at Ernst & Young, and our global mindset, that's something our people can relate to, and get behind."

In November 2006, Cirque's founder, Guy Laliberté, won Ernst & Young's coveted Entrepreneur Of The Year Award for Canada. He went on to become the only Canadian to ever take the Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur Of The Year^® title in June 2007.

"We share so many things, from our history to our values. This sponsorship is a natural extension of our great relationship with Cirque du Soleil, and we are excited to work together to provide truly unforgettable experiences for our clients and employees," explains Kelly Peace, National Marketing & Communications Director for Ernst & Young in Canada. "This sponsorship allows us to advance our brand in bold, non-traditional ways, which is truly exciting."

About Ernst & Young

Ernst & Young is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. Worldwide, our 152,000 people are united by our shared values and an unwavering commitment to quality. We make a difference by helping our people, our clients and our wider communities achieve their potential.

For more information, please visit ey.com/ca.

Ernst & Young refers to the global organization of member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.

Amanda Olliver
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Julie Fournier
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Sarah Shields
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