Cirque Aïtal

• 2004
• France

Talented, skilful and demanding, Victor Cathala and Kati Pikkarainen cultivate a strange science, a veritable experiment with the body and with circus figures in which, in its most authentic expression, corporal work literally transforms language. After studying agriculture, Victor discovered equestrian vaulting which led him straight to circus schools and to Paris. Kati practiced circus from the age of eight in Finland, near Helsinki. Without hesitating, she also went to Paris. It was during their respective studies at Rosny that Victor and Kati met and practiced together, hand in hand. La Piste là was the first show by the Cirque Aïtal, created by Victor and Kati with composer-musician Mathieu Levavasseur in 2007. It was later modified for a 4-artist version in 2008 with Victor and Kati being joined by porter-juggler-accordionist, Mathias Salmenaho and composer-clown-double bass player, Helmut Nünning. The show was designed for the ring and is performed in a big top. The 360° encounter with the public led them to purchase a big top, which served as a driving force in their creations. Meetings are essential: from the technical crews to performing partners and other artistic participants, all play a role in bringing their creative force to maturity.