BRIDGES
LEAD ORGANIZATION: BudeCirkus
The BRIDGES Festival is a multi-day open-air showcase of contemporary circus. It takes place on the Golden Bridge in Budweis and its surroundings—right in the heart of the city, among people and above the river.
The central motif is funambulism: tightrope walking as a discipline, a risk, and a metaphor for the delicate balance we all seek. The festival relies on strong physical performances, visually striking images and direct contact with the audience – often so close that the viewer becomes part of it.
BRIDGES bring together Czech and international ensembles, fresh approaches, workshops, labs and community meetings. In addition to thrilling shows, the festival also offers educational programs, international exchanges and a space for sharing experiences – from young talents to circus educators and industry professionals.
BRIDGES is not just a festival. It is a place of encounter, experimentation and inspiration. A space where circus learns, shares and moves forward.
Why is the BRIDGES project part of Budweis 2028?
BRIDGES fulfills the key values of the European Capital of Culture:
-
It connects art with the community – enabling the active involvement of a wide range of residents, including vulnerable and neglected groups.
-
It brings a European dimension – thanks to international cooperation and exchange of experiences between artists and communities.
-
It transforms public space – bridges and embankments become a stage for art and community life.
-
It promotes social inclusion and participation – social circus as a tool for connecting people across generations, cultures, and social classes.
-
It has a long-term impact – developing local capacities, providing education in the field of new circus, and embedding an inclusive approach to the city's cultural life.
-
BRIDGES is therefore more than just a festival – it is a symbol of a cultural bridge between people, places, and the future, in the spirit of Budweis 2028.
About BudeCirkus:
Bude Cirkus, z.s. is a civic association from Budweis focused on the development of new circus and physical theater in the South Bohemian region. It organizes regular courses and workshops for children from 3 years of age and adults, which include juggling, acrobatics on the ground and in the air, balancing, pair acrobatics, teamwork and physical games. The focus is on creativity, fun, physical development and a safe environment for all participants.
The association also organizes public events, provides demonstrations of new circus at festivals and schools and offers team-building programs for schools, organizations and community groups.
