Organizer Information
Circostrada is the European Network for Contemporary Circus and Outdoor Arts. Since 2003, it has worked to develop and structure these sectors in Europe and beyond. With over 150 member organizations in 40+ countries, Circostrada facilitates international cooperation, professional research, and policy advocacy. The network is coordinated by ARTCENA (the National Centre for Circus, Outdoor Arts, and Theatre) based in France and is supported by the Creative Europe programme of the European Union.
Title & Description
Bounce 2026: Professional Development & Mentoring Programme
Bounce is a specialized mentoring program designed for circus and outdoor arts professionals who are looking to expand their creative, relational, and business capacities. Unlike a typical residency, Bounce focuses on career-building and professional practice rather than artistic creation. Mentees are paired with experienced facilitators to reflect on fair practices, equitable working conditions, and the ecological impact of their work. The program provides the tools needed to advance a specific professional project while integrating the mentee into a high-level international network.
Categories
Professional Development, Cultural Management, Festival Programming, Editorial Projects, Arts Administration, and Residency Development.
Note: This program specifically targets the Contemporary Circus and Outdoor Arts sectors.
Eligibility
- Experience: Candidates must have between 4 to 10 years of professional experience in the contemporary circus or outdoor arts fields.
- Residency: Open to professionals residing preferably in Creative Europe eligible countries.
- Focus: Applicants must be currently working in the sector and have a specific professional project (e.g., launching a festival, creating a new residency model, or an editorial project) to focus on during the program.
- Exclusions: The program does not accept artistic projects (creation of shows) or proposals dedicated solely to touring existing shows.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Mentorship: A 16-hour tailor-made development program with a professional facilitator.
- Workshops: One on-site and two online workshops guided by experts in fair practices and working conditions.
- Travel & Stay: Full coverage of travel, accommodation, and per diems for the kick-off event and the Circostrada General Meeting.
- Networking: Direct participation in the Circostrada General Meeting and/or FRESH events, providing access to hundreds of global sector leaders.
- Research Access: Opportunity to engage with the SPARK Participatory Research Lab.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Curriculum Vitae: Maximum 1 page, written in English.
- Project Documentation: A single PDF containing any relevant material about your current professional project (note of intent, photos, mock-ups, etc.).
- Motivation: Evidence of a desire to reflect on fair practices and professional growth.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 February 2026
- Kick-off Event: June 22–23, 2026 (Sibiu, Romania).
- General Meeting Wrap-up: June 24–26, 2026 (Sibiu, Romania).
- Program Duration: The full mentorship cycle runs from June 2026 to October 2027.
Location
Sibiu, Romania
Additional Details
Priority is given to projects that align with themes of Fair Practices and Equitable Working Conditions. Circostrada is committed to diversity and encourages applications from professionals of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities to ensure a wide geographical and sectoral representation.