Read the article on the La Provence website

Article written by B. Bu of the newspaper *La Provence*.

Etymologically, the term “circus” comes from the Latin word *circus*, meaning “circle,” which referred to the circular arena where the games of the ancient circus were held. The first performance of a modern circus in London took place on April 7, 1768, and was staged by Philip Astley. However, the performers identify themselves as “circassiens”—a reference to the Cossacks who, in the 19th century, were renowned throughout Europe for their equestrian feats in the first modern circuses, particularly in France and England.

This association of ideas, which suggests that “Circassian” and “circus” are related, is in fact merely a historical connection, not a linguistic one. And the family of Alexie, the owner of the European circus that has set up shop for the third year in a row at Marina Plage with new acts, identifies as circus performers. “Our family lives and breathes this wonderful profession—it’s in our DNA.”

Shortly before intermission—during which Nancy, Alexie’s wife and a former trapeze artist, sells candy and popcorn—the two Paw Patrol mascots burst onto the ring before going to give hugs—and, of course, take selfies—with the audience, which includes young people, but not only them! This family-friendly circus never takes a break, as the nearly daily performances are essential to support not only the six performers but also the domestic animals—camels, llamas, and horses.

A circus without wild animals, which will be banned in 2028

"We no longer have any wild animals, which will be permanently banned in 2028, even though our current facilities are just as well-suited to housing them as a zoo or wildlife park. “A real circus features animals, acrobats, and clowns—that’s what people love. As far back as 1844, my ancestors were already putting on bear shows in village streets,” the family notes.

Currently, it takes one day of setup to install the 200-seat big top, the fences, and the animal pens—the same amount of time it will take in early September before they hit the road again toward new destinations. The Marina gives them a chance to take a breather for a few days between tours: “With all these animals around, it feels just like home. We’re right at home here. We run the circus school every Wednesday morning to introduce kids to the art of the circus, and we handle the camel rides to give the entertainment team a break.”

Rozelito is the family clown, both literally and figuratively: “Playing with the diabolo is my passion. I create my own skits and facial expressions to make the whole audience laugh—not just the kids. ” Cassandra performs a beautiful trapeze act, just as her mom taught her, and Carl is a tightrope walker—a skill he learned from his father, Jason, who’s sort of the family’s jack-of-all-trades.

Circus performances every Sunday in the late afternoon. Circus school every Wednesday morning at the Marina Plage campground in Vitrolles. For more information, call 04 42 89 31 46.

During the season, check out a new article about our campground every week in the newspaper *La Provence*!