Sous la Grand Chapiteau

In Cirque Napoleon, we invite you to step back in time to witness a world of inventive characters inspired by the opening of this historic Parisian circus.  Named for Emperor Napoleon III in 1859, Cirque Napoleon created a new, amazing and spellbinding world of aerial acrobatics.  This at a time when artists, musicians, and writers were beginning to flourish in the bistros of Montmartre.

In 1859 Jules Leotard created his renowned Flying Trapeze act.  Behold the impetuous and audacious Jules as he joins Nina, a young girl bewitched by the eccentric cast of the Cirque Napoleon characters.

Follow in the magical footsteps of Jonquil, the gay but melancholy buffoon who guides Nina on her journey.

Be amazed by the ensemble of French gypsies who descend on the Cirque camp.

Laugh at the comic bicyclists Jacque and Pierre who torment Claude the impressionistic painter.

Fall under the spell of the jaded Moulin Rouge girls, the enigmatic Solange, the lively and infectious LuLu, and the marvelous bungee trapeze artists.

See Cirque Napoleon breathe life into Nina and these colorful characters, just as our dazzling costumes, high-flying acrobats, and creative staging illuminate this timeless tale.