Andorra Secures Cirque du Soleil Shows for 2024 and 2027 with Extension Options

Andorra's Tourism and Trade Minister Jordi Torres has confirmed that the current Cirque du Soleil contract secures shows for this year and 2027, while keeping options open for future extensions based on the political situation and alternative events.

The latest edition, *Ràdio Andorra*, launched at a presentation on Thursday to tourism sector representatives. It centres on the historic radio station's role as Andorra's first international promotion tool, reaching audiences from Africa to the United States during the 1940s and 1950s. The storyline follows two characters, Glòria and Lasso, who request the same song from distant parts of Europe and travel to Andorra to meet. The production features two live singers inspired by the station's voices and jazz icons, tap-dancing characters known as the Bojangles, and ten acrobatic acts—including four world premieres, four unseen in Andorra, and adapted versions of prior numbers.

Running 22 performances from 3 July to 2 August at the Prada Casadet bus park in Andorra la Vella, it offers 3,150 seats per show—a reduction from last year's 3,500 after removing poor-visibility spots—totaling 69,300 tickets. Prices range from €25-€59, unchanged from before, with general sales opening 11 May. Doors open at 20:00, pre-show animation at 21:40, and performances start at 22:00.

Enric Torres, Andorra Turisme's director of products and events, described it as the first edition "100% identified with the country," aiming to match 2025's success: 64,548 attendees (82% occupancy), 8.3 average rating, and €18.4 million economic impact. That year, 84% of visitors came for the show, 70% cited it as their main reason to visit, 59% were first-timers, and 79% would return, with an average 2.5-night stay rated 8.8. Expenses totaled €4.65 million, ticket revenue €1.94 million, and net public cost €2.71 million—equating to €122,000 per show, which Jordi Torres called a strong cost-benefit ratio.

Torres reiterated that the 2027 inclusion ensures continuity ahead of likely early-2027 elections, avoiding constraints on successors. "We do not want to bind future governments," he said. Alternatives are under study, including adaptable international events, though details remain undisclosed as "irresponsible" to share now. He admitted replacing the Cirque, which has boosted July tourism for 12 years with around 70,000 visitors, would be "very difficult." The Espai Capital is a potential 2027 venue, pending construction and parish coordination.

Torres neither ruled in nor out post-2027 Cirque continuity, noting it transcends politics and enjoys sector-wide support. "When the contract ends in 2027, we will decide what comes next," he said. Officials target over 75% occupancy and 8+ ratings as success benchmarks, projecting similar economic returns this year.