Two generations of new circus come together in Schwerte as part of "Circus Date". The performances take place in public spaces and present the entire spectrum of the art form: from spectacular acrobatics to autobiographical reflection, interactive elements and political debate.
Six productions by international ensembles will be shown. Three of them are works by the "old generation", who have been active since the early 90s. These will be contrasted with three works by young, up-and-coming ensembles.
The new Circus Date format creates a dialog between the generations that is not only evident in the selected productions. At a symposium organized jointly with BUZZ (Bundesverband Zeitgenössischer Zirkus) on September 1, 2024, the meeting of the generations will be discussed as well as the importance of passing on knowledge and experience. Among other things, the focus will be on the question of the right of "young people" to discover and develop contemporary circus for themselves. In addition, topics such as dealing with physical limitations and the desire for financial stability in relation to career planning will be discussed.
The Circus Date takes place at the same time as the "World Theater of the Street Schwerte". This is one of the most renowned and traditional festivals for theater in public spaces and builds on its charisma to offer the New Circus a worthy platform.