Riga Circus is launching a new project where circus arts will serve as a unifying platform for children from families who have arrived in Latvia from other countries. The initiative provides an opportunity for their personal stories and experiences to become visible and heard within the broader society.

The project “Social Circus for the Integration of Third-Country National Children,” which runs from April 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027, aims to promote the inclusion of third-country national children and their families into Latvian society through the practice of social circus.

“Circus arts offer a unique environment where integration happens through experience, rather than just language. It creates a space where children from different cultures can meet as equals, develop trust, collaborate, and express themselves. Unlike traditional education, the circus does not emphasize deficiencies but reveals each individual’s potential, making it a particularly effective tool for building an inclusive society.

In the Riga Circus strategy for the next five-year period, we have made this social integration aspect our priority. We strive to become the most accessible cultural venue in Latvia, opening our doors to people who, due to various barriers (social, economic, or prejudice), have not encountered circus arts before, and showing them that they can be active participants rather than just passive observers. We hope that the children, youth, and their parents will be able to carry this circus experience over into their daily lives and society as a whole,” explains Māra Pāvula, Director of Riga Circus.

During the project, 25 children of third-country nationals (aged 7 to 14) will join Riga Circus School classes. Alongside their peers, coaches, and professional artists, they will engage in a creative co-creation process. This will culminate in a circus performance to be presented to the general public in September 2027.

What is Social Circus?

Social circus is an approach where circus disciplines are used as a tool for personal development and the strengthening of social skills. It is especially effective when working with children, youth, or other groups requiring additional support to create a safe environment and promote well-being. It combines a creative, physical, and collaborative process where the focus is not only on the artistic result but also on building participants’ self-esteem, sense of belonging, and cooperation skills. It is also a significant intercultural tool that helps unite different communities, strengthen mutual relationships, and create new social bonds.

Learn more about the project at: www.cirks.lv

Contact person: Katrīna Dūka International Project Manager [email protected]

Project PMIF/13.3./2025/1/08 “Social Circus for the Integration of Third-Country National Children” is co-financed by European Union funds and is implemented from April 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027. The total eligible costs of the project are 99,023.39 EUR, of which 74,267.54 EUR is funding from the European Union Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, and 24,755.85 EUR is national budget co-financing.