French circus professionals demand urgent action as funding cuts threaten the sector's survival, with calls for increased public investment and policy changes.
Circus sector calls for urgent funding
The professional creative circus sector in France has launched an appeal during the Circa festival in Auch, highlighting its financial struggles and urging government action. The appeal, signed by 220 professionals, emphasizes the need for increased funding and support to prevent parts of the sector from disappearing.Sector funding remains far below needs
The sector currently receives 29 cents per inhabitant per year in funding, but its estimated annual needs are 1.50 euros per person. This significant gap has led to concerns about the sustainability of the sector, especially as public funding has been reduced over time.Institutional recognition lacks financial backing
Marc Jeancourt, co-director of Azimut, summarized the issue by saying, "We are on paper, we are not on budgets." Despite the circus's established legitimacy as an art form, the lack of corresponding financial support remains a critical issue for its survival.Training programs face serious threats
Peggy Donck, director of CNAC, emphasized the importance of training institutions, stating that without solid preparatory schools, the entire training chain weakens. Isabelle Joly of FEDEC added that training an artist takes years, and an interrupted curriculum cannot be made up for.Public investment seen as essential
Maël Tortel, president of the Syndicat des Cirques et Compagnies de création, argued that circus is not a sector to save out of charity but a public policy that supports employment. Florent Fodella, president of FFEC, called for a reorientation of decisions to revise public policies and change direction.Funding cuts accumulate over time
Jean-Marie Songy and Mathilde Favier of Territoires de Cirque warned that circus doesn't disappear because of a single decision but through the accumulation of small funding cuts. Despite institutional recognition, the gap between recognition and actual budget allocations remains significant.Artists emphasize the value of their work
Baptiste Petit of the CGT Spectacle stated, "Culture is not a commodity. We will sign this Cry because we want to live from our professions." Alain Reynaud of La Cascade highlighted the humanistic value of circus, comparing a dangerous jump to an act of peace.Three main demands for political action
The Circus Appeal outlines three key requests to national and local authorities: guaranteeing a budget to preserve the sector's vitality, ensuring the State budget is passed on time to avoid funding freezes, and securing long-term joint commitments from the State and local authorities.
