Les Folies Gruss celebrate 50 years of circus and equestrian arts, in Paris and Béziers

The Alexis Gruss circus company marks a major milestone in its history, with a 50th anniversary in Paris. Half a century of passion, creativity and exceptional performances, celebrated through the new creation of Les Folies Gruss show, which returns to Paris from October 5th, 2024 until March 30th, 2025. This unique circus show, which fuses music, equestrian art and aerial performances, offers spectators a unique immersive experience in the heart of the greeny Bois de Boulogne. On the occasion of its 50th edition, the Alexis Gruss Company proves once again that it is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world of circus and equestrian arts. With its new creation, the company invites the audience on a magical journey where breathtaking performances, magic and emotions blend. By AP

The adventure of Les Folies Gruss is the result of the unwavering commitment of three generations of artists. For your information, in 1974, Alexis Gruss founded this Company, with an ambitious project, to reinvent the art of the circus, while preserving the family’s equestrian traditions. From the first installation of the big top at the Hôtel Salé, to around twenty venues, around the world, the company has been continuously reinventing itself, in order to remain true to its roots. In 1983, it became the Cirque National, a label that attests to the importance and quality of their know-how, proving that it is not just a show, but a true celebration of living art and family heritage (photo credits: AP). 

Since its installation at the Carrefour des Cascades in Paris, in 2001, the Compagnie Alexis Gruss has become a pillar of live entertainment in France. Thus, Les Folies Gruss show, launched in 2019, embodies this desire for innovation, by mixing equestrian performance, live music and gourmet meals in a unique setting. This concept, which combines altogether a pre-show (where people can share a seated lunch), a main show and an after-show (where people can meet the artists), allows the audience to live a complete experience, going beyond the simple show to become a moment of total immersion.

As far as we know, Les Folies Gruss show, which celebrates this 50th jubilee, stands out for its great originality. Co-written by Stephan Gruss and composer Grégory Garell, with scenography by Grégory Antoine, this 50th creation unveils a breathtaking staging. The show highlights the talents of 25 artists and 50 horses, symbolizing the excellence and know-how of the Gruss family, especially in equestrian art. At the heart of this show, Candice Parise and Xavier Ducrocq, talented artists and singers, accompany the spectators, within a narration, where magic and technical prowesses harmoniously intertwine (photo credits: Les Folies Gruss). 

The story of this creation tells the wishes of Louise, a young singer aspiring to join Les Folies Gruss troupe. Along the way, she meets Piotr, a loyal technician, who opens the doors to the fascinating world of horses and equestrian art. Together, they reveal the secrets and challenges of putting on such a show, inviting the audience to discover the backstage of a troupe of extraordinary artists. Nonetheless, Les Folies Gruss do not just offer a classic show, but they offer a real immersion, where every moment is an invitation to magic. Even before the show begins, the audience can enjoy a gourmet homemade meal, along some artistic performances and live music.

Therefore, this convivial concept of pre-show, circus show and after-show allows you to experience several dimensions of the event. Then, after the show, spectators are invited to chat with the artists, ask them questions, request a dedication, or even simply prolong the magic over a drink, in a unique and warm setting. This desire for hospitality and sharing is at the heart of the experience, offered by the Alexis Gruss Company, making each performance an unforgettable event. Beyond performances and creativity, Les Folies Gruss embodies the legacy of six generations of artists. 

Today, Stephan, Firmin and Maud, the heirs of Alexis Gruss, lead their company with the same passion as their ancestors, while bringing their own inspirations and preserving the essence of their original art.

This unmissable show takes place under the big top of the Carrefour des Cascades, a historic location in the heart of the Bois de Boulogne in Paris. This site offers a magical setting for their Folies Gruss performances, since 2001. This intimate and majestic venue allows spectators to fully experience the show’s immersive experience, with a rare proximity to the artists and horses. Adding to this, the company constantly seeks to reinvent itself, with a new show every two years. This is how in 2019, that Les Folies Gruss concept was born, spending emotions here until March 30th, 2025, before moving to the South of France, in Béziers, for a summer residence, from July 9th until August 30th, 2025. 

Les Folies Gruss, Bois de Boulogne / Carrefour des Cascades, 75016 Paris (France) / Phone : 00 33 (0)1 45 01 71 26. More details on their official website.