Circus and street arts at the Maladrerie Saint-Lazare in Beauvais
Every last weekend of August, the Malices et Merveilles festival takes over the Maladrerie Saint-Lazare in Beauvais for two days of circus, street theater, music, dance, and storytelling performances. Created in 2010 by the company No Mad Diffusion, this free and family-friendly event brings together about fifteen professional companies from all over France. In the exceptional setting of this 12th-century historical monument, young and old discover unique, poetic, and surprising artistic forms in a festive and friendly atmosphere.
Since 2010, the Malices et Merveilles festival has transformed the Maladrerie Saint-Lazare in Beauvais into a true living performance village every end of summer. Supported by the company No Mad Diffusion, this free event offers a rich and varied program over two days, focusing on circus, street theater, dance, music, and storytelling.
Each edition hosts about fifteen professional companies from all over France, who set up their sets and unpack their bags in the gardens and historic buildings of the Maladrerie. Clowns, acrobats, jugglers, musicians, storytellers, and dancers perform on several stages, offering shows suitable for all audiences, from toddlers to adults.
The Malices et Merveilles program is distinguished by its appreciation for unique, poetic, and surprising artistic forms. From intimate clown shows to grand musical parades, from object theater to aerial dance, each edition offers discoveries and shared emotions in a festive atmosphere.
The Maladrerie Saint-Lazare, a former 12th-century medieval hospital classified as a historical monument, provides a unique backdrop for the festival. Its gardens, stone buildings, and cloister create a natural and poetic setting that fully contributes to the event's magic.
Access to the festival is completely free, in line with the organizers' commitment to making culture accessible to all. Picnic and relaxation areas are provided, and on-site catering is available to fully enjoy the day with family or friends.
14th edition of the Malices et Merveilles festival at the Maladrerie Saint-Lazare in Beauvais. Two days of free circus, street theater, music, and storytelling performances with about fifteen professional companies.
The 14th edition of Malices et Merveilles returns on August 30 and 31, 2025, at the Maladrerie Saint-Lazare. Music, circus, street theater, storytelling, and other delights await you during this colorful weekend, featuring about fifteen professional companies from all over France.
Maladrerie Saint-Lazare, 203 rue de Paris, 60000 Beauvais.
By train: Beauvais station, then a 15-minute walk or bus.
By car: A16 motorway, Beauvais-Centre exit. Free parking nearby.
Free admission for all shows and activities.
Catering stands and a bar on site.
Compagnie No Mad Diffusion
Website: www.nomad-diffusion.fr
Numerous hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses are available in the town and its surroundings. The local tourist office can help you find accommodation to suit your budget and needs. It is advisable to book in advance during the festival period, as accommodation can be in high demand.
The organizers strive to make the festival accessible to as many people as possible. People with reduced mobility are invited to contact the organization in advance of the event to prepare their visit and benefit from the best possible reception conditions.
The festival is suitable for families with children. Activities and dedicated areas are provided for the youngest. Strollers are generally accepted on the site, but it is advisable to check the access conditions according to the performance venues.
For any further information on the festival, its program, prices, and access conditions, do not hesitate to consult the official event website or contact the organizers directly. The festival's social media regularly broadcast updated news and practical information.
It is advisable to check the festival's official website or its social media a few days before the event for the latest information on the program, schedules, and any changes. During the summer period, remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. In autumn and winter, pack warm and waterproof clothing. A site map is usually available at the festival reception to help you easily navigate between the different activities and areas.
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Maladrerie Saint-Lazare
203 rue de Paris, 60000 Beauvais