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From August 21 to 31, 2026, Salé hosts the 11th edition of Karacena, the Biennale of Circus and Travel Arts, organised by AMESIP and the Shems’y National Circus School. Under the theme “Coming Together”, the 2026 edition explores solidarity, transmission, care for others and the strength of collective action. For eleven days, big tops, public squares and heritage sites across the city become spaces for performance, encounter and exchange between artists, residents and audiences of all ages.
The programme brings together Moroccan and international productions combining contemporary circus, dance, music, physical theatre and equestrian arts. Announced highlights include “Le Monde à l’Envers”, directed by Aïcha Aouad, “Les Métamorphoses de Jha V2”, “Awal Qalam 2026” and “Moussa, l’Enfant de la Mer”. Works by Shems’y laureates — “Bateau”, “Zarbia”, “Rihla” and “Chajarah” — are presented alongside productions from Spain and Germany, including “Sopla!” and “Clo.ther”. An opening parade on August 21 will launch a programme extending across Bab Fès, Bab Hssain, Sidi Moussa, the National Institute of Fine Arts and the Shems’y circus tents.
Beyond its performances, Karacena is conceived as a platform for creation, training and professional development. The biennale gives emerging Shems’y artists an opportunity to present their work, engage with international companies and meet cultural professionals. By placing circus in public and heritage spaces, it brings artistic practice closer to local communities and turns Salé into a living stage. Founded in 2006 through the work of AMESIP and its president Touraya Jaïdi Bouabid, Karacena continues its ambition to establish Salé as a major African and Mediterranean hub for contemporary circus, where artistic creation becomes a language of dialogue, sharing and social transformation.
