James Cameron is producing a 3D film set in the world of Cirque Du Soleil that combines "narrative storytelling" with filmed Las Vegas performances of the various shows.  Director Andrew Adamson (The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian) is currently shooting the narrative segments in New Zealand based on a story of his own creation.  Adamson has reportedly completed about a third of the film already, and shown sample footage to several interested distributors.

Cirque Du Soleil is the primary financier on the project, with hopes for a series of family friendly films that prominently feature the circus.  Hit the jump for a 3D-ready clip (read: hula hoops!) from the Cirque show Alegría.

The concept certainly isn't dull, though I can't say I'm sure exactly what the format is.  I'm particularly caught up in the phrasing in Deadline's report: "narrative storytelling."  This doesn't necessarily rule out non-fiction, no? Are we looking at a docudrama of sorts?  Or is this pure fiction marked by the participation (and funds) of Cirque Du Soleil?  This could be a very cool idea, and I'm eager to for the details in the coming months.

At the very least, we have this: the circus is beautiful on its own merits, and I can't imagine a 3D staging overseen by Cameron will do anything but add to the spectacle.

As promised, hula hoops!