Croix Roussiens Workshops

The Croix-Roussien Circus Arts Workshops (ACRAC)

The Croix-Roussiens Circus Arts Workshops, better known as ACRAC, is a Lyon-based association dedicated to introducing and developing young people in circus arts. Founded in 1995 , the association is located in the iconic Croix-Rousse district of Lyon and operates thanks to the involvement of volunteer parents who manage its operations.

ACRAC's goal is to allow children to gradually discover the world of circus arts in an environment adapted to their age. The first workshops are available for children aged 4 and up , with groups specifically designed for children in the middle and upper levels of preschool. Older children then have access to classes adapted for primary and secondary school students.

The workshops are held at Salle de la Ficelle, 65 boulevard des Canuts in the 4th arrondissement of Lyon, in the heart of the Croix-Rousse district. Classes take place weekly during the school term and are suspended during school holidays.

ACRAC's circus arts training is now offered in partnership with the Lyon Circus School. The latter officially states that it provides year-round "off-site" training to the Croix-Roussiens Circus Arts Workshops, alongside other organizations in the Lyon metropolitan area. This collaboration allows the association to draw upon the pedagogical expertise of a professional circus school accredited by the FFEC (French Federation of Circus Schools).

The approach offered is primarily that of an amateur and multidisciplinary practice. Young people discover different branches of circus arts and progressively develop their motor skills , coordination , balance , dexterity , and body awareness . The practice also allows them to work on more artistic and collective dimensions: creativity , expression , self-confidence , listening to others , and participation in a shared project.

Significant emphasis is placed on showcasing student work. The association traditionally organizes an end-of-year performance , with format adapted to the children's ages. ACRAC's archives show, for example, that the youngest students were able to present their work during their regular workshop, while a special performance was organized at the Salle de la Ficelle for the older groups.

ACRAC also offers circus workshops, particularly as a complement to its regular programs. The association's website has a section specifically dedicated to these workshops, although no sufficiently detailed 2026-2027 workshop program has yet been published to announce specific dates.

2026-2027 Season

Registration for the 2026-2027 season has been open since July 5, 2026. ACRAC explicitly states that there are no changes to prices or schedules compared to the previous season.

The 2026-2027 fees are €165 for the MS-GS workshops and €276 for the other groups, plus a €15 association membership fee per family. Registration fees are paid via HelloAsso .

With over 30 years of existence in 2026, ACRAC is a well-established local organization in the Croix-Rousse district, enabling children to discover and practice circus arts in Lyon. Its family-run, non-profit structure and its educational partnership with the Lyon Circus School give it a unique identity, focused on a friendly, amateur approach and the progressive learning of circus disciplines.

• The schedule and prices remain the same for 2026-2027: Monday 5:10pm-6:05pm, MS-GS: €165
• Monday 6:10-7:25 pm, CE to collège: €276
• Tuesday 5:10 p.m.-6:05 p.m., MS-GS: €165
• Tuesday 6:10-7:25 pm, CP-CE: €276
• In addition to this, there is a €15 membership fee per family.