We have received more applications than ever before for our grande finale from 18 to 22 September 2025. We received a total of 640 dossiers from 824 artists from 66 countries – an absolute record. 22 artists from 12 nations made it into the field of participants and will present their extraordinary performances on our stage. Ten of them will be competing for the coveted prizes, accompanied by former winners who will once again perform their award-winning acts. Details about the participating acts will follow at the beginning of August.

More than half of the tickets for the six shows in the Event Hall at Messe Basel have already been sold. We recommend that all interested parties secure their seats early. It will be a unique experience.

A special highlight of this festival year is the publication of an artistic, high-quality photo book documenting the 20-year history of YOUNG STAGE. Basel-based photographer Pablo Wünsch Blanco, who has been with us since the first edition, has compiled emotional black-and-white photos that capture unforgettable moments and special encounters. Supported by the Isaac Dreyfus-Bernheim Foundation, the book will be published in time for the start of the festival in September.

The international circus and show scene has announced its attendance for the Grande Finale. Experts, bookers, directors and numerous companions will come together in Basel to celebrate the end of a unique festival era with us. In 2025, we will once again be offering workshops and a wide range of opportunities for dialogue with the industry to accompany the festival, in line with our mission to support young talent on their journey.