Besides Viet Nam, the troupes are from Russia, China, Laos and Cambodia, as well as Thailand, Malaysia, and Myanmar.

Magic shows, juggling, sports and swinging acts, as well as roller skating, acrobatics and acts by clowns will be on display at the festival.

The International Circus Festival is organised by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to promote co-operation in the fields of culture and fine arts between Viet Nam and other countries.

Through the festival, Vietnamese art managers and circus artists will have an opportunity to exchange valuable experiences on the nature of life in human circus troupes, learn effective methods of organisation, management and create high-quality artistic works to meet the demand of people in contemporary times.

Local spectators will also get chance to enjoy top circus acts by international artists.

Based on the assessment of a five-member art council, including Vietnamese and foreign veteran circus artists, the gold and the silver medals will be given to artists with the best circus acts (excluding bonus). The prize criterion is based on actual artistic quality, regardless of the type of act.

In addition, the organiser will award prizes to individual artists and groups with unique creativity. Souvenir cups will be given to all circus troupes, artists and groups participating in the festival.