A unique open-air circus is drawing crowds in Villa Gesell, Argentina, offering a vibrant blend of acrobatics, comedy, and live music. The Circo del Aire, now in its 17th season, has become a summer tradition for both residents and tourists with its remarkably affordable ticket prices-currently 8,000 Argentine pesos, or roughly $8 USD-and family-friendly atmosphere. Founded and directed by aerialist María del Aire, the circus not only entertains but also serves as a year-round artistic incubator, nurturing emerging talent and fostering a collaborative spirit within the performing arts community.
A dazzling spectacle has become a summer night staple in Villa Gesell, Argentina. Nestled amongst the trees at Avenida 3 and Paseo 113, the illuminated sign reading “Aire” (Air) marks the location of the Circo del Aire, a captivating circus that blends humor, acrobatics, and live music. The open-air venue, with a remarkably accessible price point, has quickly become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.
The Circo del Aire experience begins even before the show starts. As attendees line up, the performers themselves act as ushers, guiding families to their seats in the 200-capacity grandstand. The atmosphere is immediately welcoming, with comedians breaking the ice through playful interactions, sketches, and gags, setting the stage for a night of circus fun.
This year’s program showcases a dynamic blend of physical prowess and artistic grace, with a visual aesthetic reminiscent of Federico Fellini’s classic film, La Strada (1954). The performance reaches new heights with the aerial duo of Maxi Amei and Rocco, whose breathtaking ribbon act defies gravity. Veteran performer Espejo, a mainstay of the company, continues to impress with his precision and charisma, adding a touch of tradition to the show.
The most spectacular and daring moment comes with Lucilu, the newest addition to the Circo del Aire, who performs a thrilling trapeze act set to the swinging sounds of the 1920s. This piece captures the essence of traditional circus artistry and serves as the show’s exhilarating climax. The performance then transitions into modern acrobatics with a collaborative routine featuring Rococo, Luci, and Maxi, culminating in a final bow led by director María del Aire and the entire cast.
“We’ve been working for years to realize the dream of an open-air circus, and we’re committed to showcasing emerging artists,” explains María del Aire, the project’s creator and director. “Each season, we pour our energy into creating a new spectacle, while staying true to our unique aesthetic and our spirit of discovery.” For her, the circus is a space for freedom and a journey of the soul. “We’re driven by an adventurous spirit, always with happiness as our ally, which is the key to this project.”
The show’s roots lie in the training of its director. Having studied at the Circus School of Rio de Janeiro and honed her skills in Spain and Argentina, María del Aire has explored techniques in aerial acrobatics, silks, rope, and flying trapeze. Her experience includes performances with international companies like Circo da Madrugada (Brazil/France) and traditional circuses such as Orlando Orfei and the Moscow Nikita Circus. This passion is also a family legacy: her daughters, Nati Bordesio (an acrobat and now a photographer) and Indala, who has been performing trapeze since the age of four, are integral to the company’s DNA.
Beyond the summer season, the Circo del Aire serves as a continuous hub for artistic development. Throughout the rest of the year, the project operates as a creative and research space in the San Telmo neighborhood of Buenos Aires, fostering a cooperative workspace dedicated to the performing arts, with workshops in clowning, theater, and aerial acrobatics.
That same spirit of collaboration extends to the infrastructure in Villa Gesell. Every element, from the lighting to the seating, has been the result of reinvestment season after season. At the close of each show, the director delivers a compelling message: “This space is yours, and its continued existence depends on you.” It’s an invitation to view art as a collective endeavor, where the audience, through affordable ticket prices, becomes the primary supporter of a dream that has been soaring for 17 years under the Gesellino sky.
Circo del Aire. Located at Av. 3 and Paseo 113 (Municipal Grounds, Villa Gesell). Performances begin January 6th, with shows daily at 9:30 PM and 11:00 PM. Find them on Instagram: @circodelaire | Facebook: /Circo-del-Aire
