The arrival of Circo del Sol with its OVO show at Movistar Arena has become a major event for Madrid. For the first time, this large-scale production is taking place not under the usual big top, but in one of the city’s largest indoor venues. This decision changes the perception of the circus and sets a new standard for similar events in Spain. Organizing the space, logistics, and backstage operations all require new approaches, impacting the entire entertainment industry in the country.
As El Pais notes, OVO is more than just a performance—it’s a complex system where every detail is meticulously planned. On stage, a story about an insect colony unfolds, with each creature displaying unique abilities. Acrobats portray crickets bouncing on trampolines and spiders performing intricate tricks on webs. Behind this colorful spectacle lies immense backstage work: every week, the Circo del Sol team builds a temporary city tailored to the new venue.
A touring circus demands exceptional mobility. Instead of a fixed infrastructure, the troupe transports 21 trucks loaded with props, equipment, costumes, and even its own gym. At Movistar Arena, performers train in a specially equipped area, while technical staff assemble massive sets like flowers and spider webs. A temporary laundry with dozens of washing machines and powerful dryers keeps over 800 costumes clean.
Backstage and daily life
The backstage at Movistar Arena has a unique atmosphere. Every day, work buzzes here: some performers are warming up, others are rehearsing complex routines, and costume specialists are sewing and repairing outfits. Costumes for acrobats are light and comfortable so as not to restrict movement, while clown costumes are bulkier and more complex, individually crafted with the help of 3D scanning. Every troupe member receives clothing tailored perfectly to their size and style.
The temporary wardrobe turns into a workshop staffed by specialized experts: one in charge of headpieces, another handling footwear. This approach helps maintain a high level of quality and safety. The performers not only put on shows but also analyze their acts every day, reviewing recordings of previous performances on a special screen. This allows them to perfect their routines and avoid mistakes.
Logistics and mobility
Circo del Sol divides its shows into three types: under the big top, permanent, and touring performances in large arenas. OVO belongs to the last category, which requires special flexibility. Each time, the team faces new conditions: stage size, acoustics, and the layout of technical zones. Within a week, the group fully adapts to the new space, and by the end of their run, knows every feature of the venue. However, just as the performers get used to one arena, they have to pack up and move to the next city.
At Movistar Arena, temporary workshops and training zones appear for just a few days. This creates the feeling of living in a constantly changing city, where everyone must adapt quickly. Such an experience is valuable for the entire industry: new standards of organization, mobile solutions, and attention to detail can benefit other major events in Spain.
Technology and innovation
The technical equipment of Circo del Sol is impressive in scale. In addition to props and costumes, the troupe brings training equipment, mobile laundries, and even its own ventilation systems. This allows them to be independent of the host venue’s infrastructure and maintain the comfort level they’re used to. Every element of the show—from lighting to decorations—is adapted to each specific venue, requiring high expertise from the technical team.
Backstage at Movistar Arena, you can see the magic being created: performers practice tricks, technicians assemble complex structures, and costume specialists monitor every detail. This approach ensures not only a spectacular show, but also the safety of all participants. Ongoing improvement of processes and the introduction of new technologies have become a defining feature of Circo del Sol.
Context and examples
In recent years, Spain has increasingly become a venue for major touring shows and festivals that demand complex logistics and mobile solutions. For example, international music festivals and exhibitions also rely on temporary infrastructures and mobile workshops. The arrival of Circo del Sol at Movistar Arena highlights the growing interest in innovative event formats. Such projects help set new standards in the entertainment sector and raise expectations for service quality among audiences and participants.
