Circus has undergone a strong evolution in the past 25 years. Classic visions and forms have made way for present-day versions and varieties. There is more attention for direction and dramaturgy, a story-telling structure and unorthodox acts. Another characteristic of the Circus Theatre is the lacking of using animals. This new development is partly thanks to the circus flirting with the stage-arts: theatre, music and dance.

This genre originates in France, where many new circus companies formed in the eighties. This southern wind has now also reached the Netherlands. The concept that the New Circus is not just entertainment for the community, but a multi-disciplinary and serious art form, a distinctive form of theatre, has won territory. The festival wants to illustrate, confirm and encourage this development.

The festival Circo Circolo does not only function as a podium for international artists, but also for Dutch producers. This will not be possible without amplifying the circus climate in our region. With this belief, the festival stimulates the Youth Circus in Brabant by means of a special action-plan. Naturally, the realisation of the Academy for Circus and Performance in Tilburg adds to a more vibrant circus climate.