LEME PRO returns in 2025 with a focus on circus, territory and the digital transition

LEME PRO positions itself as a space for critical thinking, debate and professional exchange. Designed for those working across artistic creation, programming, mediation and research, the programme places particular emphasis on contemporary circus and artistic creation in public space - dimensions which, by their transdisciplinary nature, intersect with multiple domains of the performing, visual and participatory arts. Over the course of two days, LEME PRO proposes a collective reflection on the role of these practices in social transformation, the construction of new narratives, and the sensitive activation of territories.

The 2025 edition offers a journey through emerging themes in contemporary artistic creation, with a special focus on the relationship between art and technology, participatory methodologies, and the shaping of urban imaginaries. Through keynotes, roundtables, publication launches and informal gatherings, the programme brings together diverse perspectives on the challenges and possibilities that shape the future of performing arts in public space. Its aim is to foster critical thinking, stimulate knowledge-sharing, and strengthen the network of professionals working in these fields.

The digital transition is one of the central threads of the programme. More than a technical phenomenon, it is understood as a movement that reconfigures artistic languages, devices, and modes of audience engagement. With a selection of guests working across circus, performance and digital environments, the programme will explore hybrid and immersive forms of creation, as well as the ethical, aesthetic and social impacts of technology within the performative body. The intention is to reflect on digital not as a replacement, but as an expansion of the artistic gesture.

In parallel, the programme delves into the role of art as a transformative force in territorial development. Centred around the launch of the new book Outdoor Arts Portugal, participants will be invited to reflect on public space as a site for shared creation, active listening and participation. In this context, the documentary BETA CIRCUS - Participatory Experience will be screened, offering insight into community engagement processes across different European geographies and exploring circus as a tool for belonging and social transformation.

The LEME PRO 2025 programme seeks to acknowledge public (and non-conventional) space as a living and political material for contemporary creation, in close dialogue with the festival’s artistic programme, which highlights emerging proposals, innovative languages and both national and international trends. This convergence between critical reflection and artistic practice reaffirms LEME as a privileged space for thinking the present and anticipating possible futures in the performing arts.

LEME PRO 2025 will take place on 5 and 6 December, in Ílhavo, Portugal.

Registrations are now open: the Pass PRO can be purchased until 15 November, while free registration is available until 28 November.

LEME is a contemporary circus and non-conventional arts festival promoted by Bússola, in partnership with 23 Milhas - Municipality of Ílhavo. The 2025 edition of LEME PRO is supported by the Portuguese Republic - Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, through the Directorate-General for the Arts, the European Union, and the Associació de Professionals de Circ de Catalunya.