Cirque Hors Piste

Cirque Hors Piste is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to social circus, providing an inclusive and creative space for young people with marginalized life experiences. It is part of the global movement of arts for social change.

History

Cirque Hors Piste was initially established as part of the Cirque du Monde program in 1995, a social action initiative resulting from a partnership between Cirque du Soleil and Jeunesse du Monde. The Cirque du Monde program aimed to support young people facing challenges. In 2011, Cirque Hors Piste became an independent nonprofit organization, expanding its activities to better meet the needs of youth and communities[2][5].

Mission and Impact

Cirque Hors Piste uses the circus arts to offer marginalized youth an alternative path for personal development, providing artistic and social support. The organization has been a key player in reducing homelessness in the Centre-Sud neighborhood of Montreal. Cirque Hors Piste’s impact extends beyond individual support, contributing to the collective well-being of the community[3][4].

Developments and Activities

In recent years, Cirque Hors Piste has grown significantly, establishing itself as a central figure in the social circus movement in Canada. The organization opened a new circus hub in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough, thanks to a partnership with the local borough. This space serves as a platform for learning, development, and innovation in social circus at local, national, and international levels. The hub focuses on three main areas:

• Social Circus Projects: Promoting the inclusion and development of marginalized children, youth, and adults.
• Circus Community Development: Offering space for creation and the development of circus disciplines.
• Community Engagement: Enhancing the cultural fabric of the community through circus leisure activities[2][5].

Relevance and Legacy

For over 20 years, Cirque Hors Piste has been instrumental in supporting young people in precarious situations. The organization continues to operate in the Centre-Sud area through community collaborations and remains active in the Ville-Marie borough. Its commitment to social change through circus arts has solidified its position within the social circus movement globally[2][4].