From February 11 to 21, students of the Kyiv Municipal Academy of Circus and Performing Arts took part in an international circus residency in Toulouse, France, hosted by the renowned circus school Lido (Ésacto’Lido).
As part of the programme, participants engaged in an intensive training process that included workshops, daily practice, and professional exchange with French colleagues. Special attention was given to stage movement, acting expression, and contemporary circus practices.
The residency culminated in a final performance held at the contemporary art museum Les Abattoirs (Musée – Frac Occitanie Toulouse), where the students presented original work developed during their stay.
A round table was also organized within the programme, bringing together representatives of the academy, international experts, and project partners to discuss key topics in circus education, international collaboration, and support for emerging artists. Participants included Pascal Jacob (Cirque Phénix), Roman Khafizov (Cirque Inshi), Nina Araya (KMACPA), Isabel Joly (European Federation of Circus Schools), and Rebecca Duclos (Concordia University, ELIA, UAx Platform).
This initiative was made possible thanks to the support of partners, including the Charitable Foundation for the Development of Ukrainian Art, which actively promotes international educational opportunities for Ukrainian artists, as well as the Ukrainian Institute.
Participation in the residency provided students with valuable opportunities for professional growth, international collaboration, and integration of Ukrainian circus art into the global cultural landscape.