The New Circus Factory – Reuse: (Re)making for Circus
Culture Moves Europe Residency (Nov – Dec 2026)
AY-ROOP is launching an open call to select three circus artists and/or circus set designers/ builders based in a creative Europe country other than France, for a 21-day residency at Le Milieu (Saint-Jacques-de-la-Lande, Rennes Metropole) in December 2026, as part of the European programme Culture Moves Europe.
This residency is conceived as a research laboratory on reuse in contemporary circus: how can everyday materials available in all countries (paper/cardboard, plastics, lightweight metal, textiles, reclaimed wood, bicycle parts, etc. — indicative list) be used to create scenographic elements, sets, props, and small apparatuses (for juggling, acrobatics, balancing supports).
The core principle : objects are not intended to travel, but rather to be recreated locally using resources available in each territory.
AY-ROOP provides:
- a fully equipped construction workshop (information and safety document)
- a rehearsal stage (technical spefications) and a circus tent (technical specifications),
- a contact guide to reuse-sector stakeholders in Rennes Metropole,
- a complete residency environment: on-site accommodation, shared kitchen, and working facilities.
Two mentors, a reuse specialist and a performing arts professional, will support the artists throughout the residency.
Profiles
This residency is aimed at people combining artistic practice and making/fabrication (individual or group applications accepted, with a maximum of 3 people per group):
- circus artists with an interest in construction/scenography/DIY making,
- builders/set designers working in the circus field
Applicants should demonstrate qualities such as curiosity, a willingness to experiment, attention to safety, and a desire to share and document their work.
Residents may be emerging or established artists, regardless of their educational background or level of experience. This residency is accessible to artists with disabilities and to those with accessibility needs.
Residency framework
- a 21-day residency from November 28 to December 18, 2026
- Working language: English
- No aerial apparatus/no rigging points: all experimentation will be conducted on the ground
The residency includes:
- Opportunities for discussion and exploration of the local reuse sector
- Research time and artistic and/or technical work sessions
- Opportunities to share the work carried out, present it, and communicate it to the public
Eligibility
All applicants must:
- be aged 18 or over; no upper age limit
- Legally reside in a Creative Europe country other than France and the French overseas territories and departments (DROM-COM) (see details on p. 2 – link).
- be available for the entire residency period (exact dates must be respected).
Funding and support
The residency is funded through Culture Moves Europe: link here.
- A 900 € allowance per person Flat-rate coverage of travel expenses (see details on p. 15)
- Flat-rate supplements for green mobility, visa fees, dependent children under 18, and residents of OCTs and ORs (see details on p. 16)
- Supplements for residents with disabilities and accessibility needs.
- Possibility of full coverage of the costs for a sign language interpreter (see details on p. 17)
- Accomodation on site (single rooms) Lunch meals provided at Le Milieu canteen (Tuesday to Friday)
- Access to a fully equipped shared kitchen on site,
- Coverage of technical support
APPLICATION
Please send the following in a single PDF, with links if relevant: 1. Bio / CV (maximum 1 page) 2. Portfolio (maximum 5 pages or video links) 3. Statement of intent (maximum 1 page) adressing : your interest in reuse within circus arts, the type of research you wish to pursue (materials, ground-based apparatus, scenography, methods), the shared and expected added value (skills, approach). 4. Proof of residence Timeline Application deadline: 03/07/2026 Results will be annonced on : 13/07/2026
Please check the details on the linked pdf!
AY-ROOP
Founded in 2025, AY-ROOP is a cultural organization based in the heart of Rennes Metropole, accredited as a Scene de territoire cirque (regional circus venue) in Brittany. It leads an artistic project dedicated to contemporary circus, supporting creation, dissemination, and local cultural initiatives through numerous partnerships. From Le Milieu (a metropolitan facility of community interest), AY-ROOP develops a space for performance (a little), work (a lot), research (madly), and also passionately, a place for living, discovery, and encounters open to everyone. This atypical and multifunctional venue (with its stage, circus tents construction workshop, accomodation, restaurant, outdoor spaces, etc.) embodies AY-ROOP’s mission: supporting artistic practices while building strong connections with the local area and the people who bring it to life. In its approach, the organization pays particular attention to issues of inclusion, cultural rights, and ecological transition within artistic practices.
More information : www.ay-roop.com