Heading to the Sziget Festival from August 7th? Whether you've memorized the full lineup or not (and we wouldn't blame you if you haven't—there's so much to see), we've got five reasons to dive into the Island of Freedom before the concerts even begin, plus tips on where to be amazed in between.

1. Cie Gratte Ciel: Rouge!

Watch out for the grandiose music box, a scarlet carousel spun by a whirlwind of dizzying circus acts! Performed every day, ROUGE! features acrobats, dancers, and performers in a fascinating display of artistry and challenge. Expect a vibrant celebration of life, with the talented aerialists of Cie Gratte Ciel, and captivating visual art next to Theatre-and-Dance Corner.

  • When: every day, 11:15 pm
  • Where: Giant Street Theatre

2. Cirk La Putyka: Runners

Last year, we loved Cirk La Putyka – a Polish, award-winning company – so much that we attended their show twice. So trust us when we say you need to see them, too. They will perform a spellbinding show filled with enchanting dance, impressive acrobatics and original live music! The theme is quite relatable: the experience of time in a world that demands everything be done in haste.

  • When: every day, 8 pm
  • Where: Cirque du Sziget

3. Tózsa Mikolt: It's a MATCH – or will be – maybe

Here's another super relatable topic disguised as a performance: the dilemma of online and offline dating. Think of this show as an alternative matchmaking for festival people. Would it be good to connect? Could you do with some romance or are you looking for the love of your life? It's a MATCH - or will be - and maybe helps you find the one you are looking for. Or not (?)

  • When: August 9th and 10th, 4 pm
  • Where: Theatre-and-Dance Corner

4. SuperCho: The SuperShow

Step back and enjoy an exciting pyrotechnic show based on choreography, music, and style! The French SuperCho's performance will add in electro and hip-hop, standing out again with its desire to break the genre's codes. So if you'd buzz up your night before a party, make sure to pop by and immerse yourself in this special energy.

  • When: every day, 10:45 pm
  • Where: Cirque du Sziget

5. Àngel Duran: Cowards

An energetic duet questioning the mandates of contemporary masculinity. COWARDS is delving into how men feel challenged to publicly confirm their manhood. The show combines dance and theatre, leaving you with a memorable experience and some food for thought.

  • When: August 11th 4 pm and August 12th 5 pm
  • Where: Theatre-and-Dance Corner

(Cover photo: Rockstar Photographers)

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