In Italian a “saltare in banco”, literally means “to jump on a bench.” A Saltimbanco is a street artist that perform acrobatics to dazzle their spectators. The Cirque du Soleil is coming to Barcelona and from December 30th and 10th January 2010, we’ll be able to witness some of the finest circus acts on the planet. The famous company is putting on Saltimbanco, a tribute to the city and its many facets. Why not take advantage of a visit to the Catalan capital and discover the colourful and imaginative artists of El Cirque du Soleil.

El Cirque du Soleil was formed 25 years ago by two Canadian friends that used to perform in the streets. Now, their company has over 80 million viewers in over 200 cities worldwide.

The Cirque du Soleil is quite unique and special in that it has no animals, but relies on 4,000 employees from more than 40 countries, 1,000 of whom are circus performers. The impressive scenery that is used will help you to enter the world of Saltimbanco and if you happen to go with children, it will be something they’ll remember for their entire lives.

Saltimbanco premiered in the canadian city of Montreal in 1992 which also happens to be the year Barcelona hosted the 1992 Olympic Games. Today it is an exceptional show for its blend of theatre, baroque and fantasy. The company has won over 100 awards and currently has 8 touring shows and 7 permanent shows all around the world.