Circus Mobile: Inclusion at the center of the colorful festival in Cologne!

Circus Mobile: Inclusion at the center of the colorful festival in Cologne!

On Sunday, March 23, 2025, an inspiring event took place in the Cologne game Circus: the "Festival of Inclusion". From 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., people with and without disabilities were able to take part in a colorful program that included workshops, games and creative offers such as painting and handicrafts. Admission was free and the entire house was barrier -free. Meals in the form of food and drinks were also offered, which underlined the inclusive atmosphere. The workshops were very in demand and booked in advance, but all interested participants were able to participate in other offers without prior registration, which further promoted the inclusive approach, as Spielecircus

The inclusive project "Circus Mobilé - We move together" was launched in 2023 and has worked at numerous schools and daycare centers since then. Nora Krey, who is responsible for the inclusion sector, underlines the central importance of inclusion and the positive response that the concept finds. Alex Greiner, managing board member, emphasizes that the circus work is ideal for people with impairments and that children and adolescents with migration or escape history also belong to the target group. In order to ensure a high standard, advanced staff is provided. However, this measure is expensive because many events are offered free of charge, which is compensated for by sponsors, such as the support association "we help".

activities and inclusion in the circus

As part of the festival, visitors had the opportunity to experience circus workshops. This was impressively demonstrated by a boy who initially had difficulty juggling a plate on a staff and asked his father for support. The father showed him the technology while the little sister decided to jump rope. Such interactive experiences not only promote motor skills, but also social interaction.

Heiner Kötter, co -founder of the game circus, will retire at the end of March. He accentuated the importance of inclusive circus work and significantly shaped the positive development of the project. The feedback on "Zirkus Mobilé" shows that the work in this area is well received, but the team wishes that the concept will become even better known. The festival of inclusion offers an excellent platform for this, as there is the opportunity to reduce barriers and experience a feeling of community.

The disciplines that were mediated at the festival are in line with the ongoing discussion about inclusion in various social areas, including sport. In Germany, progress in the participation of people with disabilities can be observed, but there is still considerable need for action. This applies in particular to integrative offers that are aimed at both people with physical and intellectual impairments. Initiatives such as "Zirkus Mobilé" and similar projects are crucial for progress in the direction of an inclusive society.