#China #Hengqin #Chimelong #China Circus Festival #Circus Arts

The 8th China International Circus Festival Shines in Hengqin

From November 1 to 8, 2025, the vibrant Chimelong Kaka Theater in Hengqin, Guangdong hosted the highly anticipated 8th China International Circus Festival, a grand gathering that highlighted the magical world of circus arts.

Organized by the People's Government of Guangdong Province along with the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone Executive Committee and the Guangdong Chimelong Group, the festival united 18 exceptional circus troupes, showcasing over 500 talented artists from various corners of the globe. With the theme of “Circus of the World, Gather in Hengqin”, this festival provided a unique platform for cultural exchange, bridging diverse traditions and uniting audiences through the universal language of performance.

A Feast of Global Talent

This year's festival featured celebrated circus artists from Russia, the United States, Mexico, Mongolia, and China, among others. The performances showcased a multitude of artistic styles, from breathtaking acrobatics and dance to captivating clowning and illusionary magic. Audiences were treated to standout acts that have garnered gold medals in renowned international circus competitions, offering a compelling glimpse into the heart of each performing culture.

Urs Pilz, President of the World Circus Federation and the Monte-Carlo Circus Festival, expressed excitement regarding the festival, stating, “Circus is international by nature—it transcends borders and connects different peoples.” He acknowledged China’s remarkable achievements in the circus field, having received more awards at the Monte-Carlo Festival than any other country. Mr. Pilz praised the artistic progress made by Chimelong and emphasized its global recognition.

Creative Fusion Between Cultures

Su Zhigang, Chairman of Chimelong Group, reiterated the company’s unwavering commitment to blending the intricate nuances of Chinese acrobatics with the stage aesthetics and humor derived from European circus traditions. This cultural amalgamation resulted in an impressive array of performances that were not only technically proficient but also narratively enriching, delivering an unforgettable experience for the festival attendees.

The showcase acts epitomized the festival's theme, “Global Circus Arts Converge in Hengqin,” exemplifying the dynamic relationship between Chinese and international circus art forms. Throughout its 28-year history, Chimelong has continuously brought together top-tier circus performances, maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation.

From the early days of the International Circus Gala, showcasing the finest global acts, to the innovative Magic Legend series and Chimelong Show—which earned the esteemed 31st TEA Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement—Chimelong remains dedicated to a year-round presentation of excellent cultural and entertainment offerings, guided by Chairman Su's unwavering philosophy of “only pursuing the highest standards.”

Building Relationships Through Circus

The significance of the circus arts was underscored by H.E. Marie-Pascale Boisson, the Ambassador of Monaco to China. Following her visit to the Chimelong Show, she highlighted the special bond that circus arts create between Monaco and China. As 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, she expressed her intention to foster continued collaboration with Chimelong Group to shape the future of live performances worldwide.

As the curtain descended on its 8th edition, the China International Circus Festival demonstrated its potential as a cultural powerhouse, fostering the growth of global circus culture right from its base in Hengqin. With a spirit rooted in openness, creativity, and confidence, the festival aims to share a unique Chinese perspective with the international community and bolster cultural development within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

The festival stands as a beacon for aspiring circus artists, symbolizing the continual adaptation and enrichment of cultural exchanges between nations, while ensuring that the timeless allure of circus artistry remains alive and thriving on the global stage.