The National Theatre in Tunisia has restarted its circus arts training program at the "Auditorium" in Halfaouine, a move that marks a significant revival of this art form in the country. The program, which began last year, aims to train young enthusiasts in the circus arts, with participants aged between 18 and 32 years old. The training sessions are designed to be comprehensive, covering various aspects of circus performance.
The first training session took place from January 26 to 30, 2026, with subsequent sessions scheduled for March, April, May, June, and July, as well as an intensive session from September 15 to October 31, 2026. These training sessions are being led by specialized instructors from Tunisia and abroad, providing students with a solid foundation in the circus arts. The program's structure allows for a month-long training session every month, enabling students to hone their skills.
The trainees will showcase their skills during the fourth edition of the "Moasam Al-Ibdaa" festival, which will take place from October 31 to November 7, 2026. This event will feature a special performance by the students, highlighting their progress and talents. The festival provides a platform for the trainees to demonstrate their abilities and creativity.
According to Hassan Al-Mu'adhen, one of the trainers at the National Theatre, the program aims to revive the circus arts in Tunisia and promote its presence on the cultural scene. He emphasized the importance of logistical support in sustaining this initiative, which would enable the program to have a lasting impact on the Tunisian cultural landscape.
The circus arts have a rich history, with the modern concept of circus emerging in Europe in the 1970s. This art form combines various disciplines, including dance, acrobatics, and puppetry, to create a unique and captivating performance. The revival of circus arts training in Tunisia is an effort to revive this art form and provide a platform for young artists to develop their skills.
Tunisia's engagement with the circus arts dates back to 2001, when the first circus performance was held during the Olympic Games. This led to the establishment of a national circus school in 2003, in collaboration with the French National Circus Centre. Although the project faced a temporary setback, it has produced several talented artists who have gained international recognition.
The National Theatre's initiative to revive circus arts training is a significant step towards promoting cultural diversity and creativity in Tunisia. With the support of specialized trainers and a well-structured program, young enthusiasts have the opportunity to develop their skills and contribute to the country's vibrant cultural scene.
Key points
- The National Theatre in Tunisia has resumed its circus arts training program at the "Auditorium" in Halfaouine, targeting young enthusiasts aged 18-32.
