It's estimated that that over seven million people have see the show world-wide and next year people in Manchester will get the chance to see it too as it opens under the imposing ‘Grand Chapiteau’ at The Trafford Centre on January 6.

Saltimbanco derives from the 16th century Italian word meaning ‘skilled street performers’ and refers to the medieval street troupers and wandering minstrels who entertained people through improvisation. Saltimbanco was created to celebrate life. An antidote to the chaos and despair present today, it offers a new vision of urbanity overflowing with optimism and happiness.

Bringing together a cast of 53 artists from 13 nations, Saltimbanco presents an eclectic mix of skilled acts and characters and the show promises a display of superior acrobatics and theatrical artistry.

Cirque du Soleil began life as a small group of Quebec-based street performers 20 years ago. Since then it has thrilled over 42 million spectators in more than 100 cities on four continents.

10 years ago Cirque du Soleil landed in Europe with one touring show. Following the phenomenal European tours of Saltimbanco, Alegría, Quidam and Dralion, Cirque du Soleil presents two shows simultaneously in Europe.

This year Dralion and Saltimbanco will head for the United Kingdom, premiering on the same date, January 6, 2005. Dralion will return to London’s Royal Albert Hall while Saltimbanco will visit Manchester for the first time.

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