Monaco Welcomes the Magic of the 48th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival
An unmissable highlight on the Monegasque calendar, the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival once again places the spotlight on the world of circus arts.
Founded in 1974 by Prince Rainier III, the prestigious event is presided over by his daughter, Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, a long-time and passionate advocate of the circus. President of the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival for the past 20 years, Princess Stéphanie continues to uphold her father’s legacy by championing circus arts on the international stage.
On Friday, 16 January, the Princess officially opened the 48th edition of the festival, which will run for two weeks beneath the Fontvieille Big Top. For the occasion, Stéphanie of Monaco was joined by two of her children, Louis Ducruet and Camille Gottlieb, as well as Prince Albert II, who also attended the inauguration.
The Sovereign appeared in excellent spirits, just hours after the Palace announced that he had recently undergone a minor medical procedure.
This year’s festival unfolds in several stages. From 16 to 18 January, artists will present their acts to an international jury. The traditional gala evening on 20 January will see the presentation of the awards, while from 21 to 25 January, only the prize-winning performers will return to the ring for a series of exceptional shows.
The start of the new year also marks the return of the New Generation Festival, now in its 13th edition, which highlights emerging young talent. Nearly 200 performers from around the world — including Tanzania and Kazakhstan — are taking part this year, showcasing a wide array of disciplines such as equestrian acts, trapeze artistry, juggling and acrobatics. As the Princely Palace noted, the festival promises “an exceptional event, bringing together performances of remarkable creativity and outstanding virtuosity, where technical mastery meets the extraordinary.”
