PLAY – A guest performance series by contemporary circus 2026

From 22 January 2026, Chamäleon will once again invite visitors on a month-long journey of discovery through the diverse world of contemporary circus. Nine ensembles from Germany, France, Ukraine, Portugal, Spain, the Czech Republic, New Zealand, Iran and Belgium will present their unique artistic visions.

Play 2026 demonstrates how boundaries can be transcended and social norms challenged. The artists communicate through powerful non-verbal stagecraft and engage with the audience. Only by showing themselves can people find common ground, and only by courageously stepping out of their comfort zones can they experience enrichment.

Renowned artists such as Overhead Project, winners of the Tabori Prize and the Cologne Dance Prize, and New Zealand mime artist Trygve Wakenshaw will be there, all making their debut at the Chamäleon. At the same time, familiar faces from the Chamäleon circus family will be present: Circus Sonnenstich, who deliver powerful messages about inclusion and participation on stage; Raum 305, a Berlin duo who will conclude their trilogy about the search for the other; and Berlin artist Ana Jordão, as well as Elena Zanzu from Barcelona, whose haunting performance addresses trust and consensus.


Artistic Director Anke Politz describes Play as a space for artistic intervention: “We aim to showcase diverse and pertinent viewpoints and encourage open dialogue with our audience. The pieces explore social and political issues from a personal perspective to foster intimacy and understanding. Circus thrives on interaction, and Play invites conversation afterwards.”

Accessibility is a key focus, with reduced admission prices and an extensive programme of audience guides, panel discussions, introductory talks, and Q&A sessions with the artists. The aim is to inspire new audiences and open up new horizons for regular visitors.

Dramaturg Geordie Brookman emphasises that Play is an important platform for many artists: 'For some, it is their Chameleon debut and the beginning of a collaboration; for others, it is an opportunity to develop their work and establish new connections.' Artistic Director Politz adds, 'Each production broadens our perception of what contemporary circus can encompass.'


The opening piece, Glorious Bodies by the Flemish ensemble Circumstances, is particularly exciting. Six acrobats aged between 55 and 67 display a powerful and wise physical aesthetic that transcends the pursuit of peak performance. This successful choreographed piece by Piet Van Dycke can now be seen in Berlin for the first time.

Another highlight is 'ÔMA' by Cie بلبل Bolbol. In this autobiographical piece, juggler Roxana Küwen Arsalan humorously and touchingly recounts the conversations her German and Iranian grandmothers had about her over tea. This is a story about heritage and prejudice that will strike a chord with those who call more than one place home.

The finale is Palianytsia by Compagnie Zalataï. The title refers to a traditional Ukrainian bread that became a symbol of resistance during the war.

Juggler Alexander Koblikov and multicord artist Charlotte de la Bretèque combine technical virtuosity with personal storytelling in this love story reflecting on war and showcasing the human ability to find light in dark times.


PLAY is supported by the Capital Cultural Fund. Artistic director Politz says, 'After the great success of the first two editions, we are delighted to showcase even more diversity. Circus can also be edgy or abstract yet remain accessible. It speaks a universal language without words. We look forward to exchanging ideas, finding inspiration, and drawing hope and strength from “thinking outside the box” together.”

Programm Play 2026

22.01. – 25.01.26
Glorious Bodies – Circumstances (BE)


29.01. – 30.01.26
Ez – Elena Zanzu (ES)


31.01. – 01.02.26
Blueprint – Overhead Project (DE)


03.02. – 05.02.26
a body and other objects – Ana Jordão (DE)


06.02. – 08.02.26
HIER SOWIE DORT – Raum 305 (DE)


11.02. – 12.02.26
Mimoto – Circus Sonnenstich (DE)


13.02. – 15.02.26
Silly Little Things – Trygve Wakenshaw (NZ)


17.02. – 19.02.26
ÔMA – Cie بلبل bolbol (DE/IR)


20.02. – 22.02.26
Palianytsia – Compagnie Zalataï (UKR)