Formation Artiste de Cirque — Académie Fratellini (Paris region)

Overview

The Académie Fratellini trains young people from around the world in the profession of circus artist. Over a period of three years, accepted apprentice artists obtain a national higher professional diploma in circus arts (DNSP AC), equivalent to a bachelor's degree. The educational project of the Académie is based on the commitment to support each apprentice in their professionalization journey with particular attention to the individualization of their paths.

Curriculum

The DNSP AC program includes a comprehensive curriculum that covers various specializations such as:

• Ground Acrobatic and Lifts
• Balance on Objects: canes, trapeze, ladder, chairs, unicycle
• Aerial Arts: fixed trapeze, fabric, flying rope, smooth rope, straps, aerial frame, hoop
• Object Manipulation and Juggling
• Cyr Wheel and German Wheel
• Clowning Arts

Fundamental practices include:

• Physical preparation
• Acrobatic training, balance, trampoline
• Movement (dance)
• Play (theater)
• Scenic writing: writing, dramaturgy, musical dramaturgy, scenography, and other dramaturgical approaches (lighting, costume, object)
• History and aesthetics of circus
• Health, safety, and technical aspects of performance
• Professional integration and artistic research

Schedule

The program is structured to balance between teaching (60%) and professional time (40%). Apprentices perform in two shows produced by the Académie each year and participate in various professional activities.

Cost

The training is entirely free for the apprentice and their legal representative, with only the CVEC (contribution to student life and campus) to be paid annually, which is €105 for 2025.

Who it's for

The program is open to individuals aged 16 to 29 who hold or are in the process of obtaining a baccalaureate or an equivalent diploma. Candidates must have at least two years of practice in circus arts or related fields, with a minimum of 500 hours of training per year. They must also be authorized to stay and work in France.

Audition

Auditions will take place from May 11 to May 16, 2026. Candidates must be available during this period. The application process includes submitting a CV, motivation letter, identity photo, proof of practice in circus arts, and a presentation video. The first round of applications closes on March 6, 2026, with pre-selection results announced on April 10, 2026.

Language

The courses are taught in French, and non-French speakers must provide proof of French language proficiency (TCF level 4) upon admission.

Contact

For more information, candidates can reach out via email at erasmus@academie-fratellini.com.