Les Nuits de Fourvière 2026: Circa opens the 80th anniversary with an exciting world premiere

Lyon – 29.05.2026: For the 80th anniversary of the Nuits de Fourvière festival the Australian circus company Circa opens the traditional cultural festival in Lyon for the first time. With its newest production “Revoir les étoiles” the company presents an emotional world premiere that audiences are already eagerly anticipating. Circa has become a regular participant in the festival in recent years, having performed six times, and in 2026 returns to the stage with a new production for the third time. The choice to open the anniversary program with this show underlines a special respect for the poetic aesthetics and emotional depth of the Australian circus.

“Revoir les étoiles” invites audiences on a poetic journey between dream and reality. The ensemble skillfully combines dance, acrobatics and theatre in the production, creating fluid boundaries between these forms. The show impresses with a harmonious combination of light, movement and a vulnerable musical composition that enhances the intimate atmosphere. In this production Circa tells a story of aspirations and the beginning of a new path through subtle gestures and a powerful stage presence.

The Nuits de Fourvière are considered a festival of cultural diversity and artistic innovation. Each year the festival brings together theatre, music, dance and circus outdoors. The choice of Circa to open the festival attests to the high level of esteem and growing collaboration between the troupe and the festival. Circa continually sets new standards for poetic circus art worldwide.

The festival director Carole Pine emphasizes the emotional impact of Circa’s work: “Their productions open up space for subtle nuances and demonstrate how deeply circus art can touch the soul.” Especially in the search for an authentic artistic language “Revoir les étoiles” offers the possibility to experience a profound shared experience.

The premiere opens up a new aspect of the festival for audiences in Lyon and beyond, showing how circus art as a universal language unites generations and cultures. Through its show Circa invites a new look at the stars — while also revealing hopes and memories.

Although the Australian company has performed at the festival several times, each premiere remains a moment of collective wonder and joy. The 2026 anniversary will be not only a celebration of traditions but also an artistic renewal and discovery.

“Revoir les étoiles” also reflects the dynamics of the experimental circus scene, whose importance in the world has grown in recent years. Lyon thus reaffirms its role as an important stage for artistic worlds that touch people across borders and inspire.