The city of Marrakech is having its own circus with «Marrakech fait son cirque», which returns from May 22 to 25, 2024. Organized by the Éclats de Lune collective, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, this event is part of Marrakech's designation as the «capital of culture in the Islamic world for the year 2024» by ICESCO.
On Wednesday afternoon, the «Parade of Elephants» by Théâtre Nomade opened the festivities. Comprising five giant elephants, manipulated by expert puppeteers, the procession paraded through the streets of Marrakech from the Palais des Congrès to the Youth Park, accompanied by costumed acrobats and chaâbi music. Subsequently, two shows, performed by the Racines Carrées Company, took place under the big top at the Youth Park.
In addition to this inaugural parade, the event offers a variety of shows, blending contemporary circus, equestrian poetry, and theater. Highlights include «Dance with the Horses» by Sadek El Bahjaoui, an equestrian tableau imbued with poetry, as well as «Oriental Circus Cabaret», a special creation for this 2024 edition.
Accessibility and the democratization of culture are at the heart of this event, with affordable prices and several free performances.