LEME explores new artistic languages within contemporary circus and artistic presentation in non-conventional spaces, seeking innovative creative approaches in contrast with mere experimentation. This active transformation of the traditional perception of contemporary cultural spaces aims to open the door to new artistic perspectives, with an emphasis on multidisciplinarity and diversity. Its goal is to contribute to the continued development of contemporary circus in Portugal, establishing a new point of connection between Portuguese creators and international critics, in response to the needs of a constantly evolving sector. By representing a space of opportunity for the emergence of contemporary Portuguese artistic creation in this field, LEME fosters dialogue with international trends and facilitates the creation of new references within the national territory, driving the development of new audiences.

In 2025, LEME dives into the universe of illusion, inviting us to explore the boundaries of what we see, feel, and believe. Illusion emerges as the guiding thread of a transversal programme that interweaves contemporary circus with transdisciplinary languages and bold stage experiences. Illusion as trickery and wonder, but also as an aesthetic and social provocation: from the idealised body to digital narcissism, from new materialities to the scenic artifice that unsettles us. An invitation to inhabit the thresholds between the real and the imagined, challenging perceptions, exposing vulnerabilities, and questioning the narratives that shape our present.

LEME also promotes a section especially aimed at students/creators from Portuguese circus schools. The NAVEGAR section seeks to provide space and visibility to future professionals through the programming of short pieces created and performed by emerging student/creators within the field of circus in Portugal. LEME 2025 will include in its programme four projects selected from proposals submitted through this call, with performances in non-conventional spaces across the municipality of Ílhavo and full video recordings for later broadcast via the RTP Palco platform.