Between two international tours, the Gratte Ciel company does not forget Arles, its youth, its neighborhoods.

France and the world watched in awe as acrobats swung in the Paris sky, hanging near the Seine on a July evening. However, the Gratte Ciel company did not wait for the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympics to showcase their performances internationally. What the general public may not always know is that these circus artists are based in Arles, where most of their creations are born. This includes the famous Olympic Games tableau. “We want to maintain a strong connection despite our tours in France, Europe, and around the world,” emphasizes Stéphane Girard, co-director of the company. “It is important for us to keep our feet not on the ground, but rooted in the earth and to not forget our neighbors.”

This year, Gratte Ciel is reaching a milestone with a small program in Arles in the coming days, going beyond a simple performance. By collaborating with the community, the company has set up its tent and other structures at the Papeteries Étienne site. In harmony with their temporary neighbors from the Photography Meetings and colleagues from Acquaforte, the company is…