The original building of Riga Circus located on Merķeļa Street 4 has been restored and is ready to be used. NRJA architects bureau has completed the first stage of the reconstruction project, which focused mainly on the improvement of the building’s energy efficiency.
The reconstruction also improved the integration of the building into the city’s general landscape. The circus is planned to open up for audiences around Christmas, as confirmed by representatives.
During the reconstruction process, which started in May 2021, PS AIDACO GROUP performed improvement of the building’s energy efficiency levels. A new dome structure has been installed above the old one. This structure consists of self-supporting CLT panels, a system of supports, a new roofing and rainwater drainage system. The silhouette of the facade was also made to resemble its old look. The ring of the circus was also made to be transforming and more modern.
NRJA bureau’s developed circus reconstruction project also provides multiple other tasks to be completed in the future, including landscaping and construction of a circus school.
The finished building is planned to be commissioned in the coming month. The circus will be available for performances around mid-December. However, continued improvement of the ring, which includes installation of seats, lighting and audio systems, is planned to be completed by the end of 2023.
Riga Circus creative director Mārtiņš Ķibers is confident the ring’s reconstruction will further improve the availability of the art of circus in Latvia and Baltic States: «During many circus performances organised outside the building and thanks to the circus festival Re Riga!, we have learned that there is a strong shortage of modern, technologically appropriate and well-fitted premises for high ceiling and suspension points in Latvia. Now we will be able to improve our performances and hold even more refined circus performances. We will be able to demonstrate the true circus magic!»
Riga Circus board member Māra Pāvula stressed the role of infrastructure for the development of the circus sector: «Reconstruction of the ring is an important event in the history of Latvia’s circus. However, the sector still requires development of so-called black box halls, as well as a proper circus school and art centre.»
The initial investments of the circus renovation project reaches about EUR 5.5 million. Funding from the EU accounts for EUR 2 980 880 of this among. The state budget funding accounts for EUR 447 132.
Riga Circus plans partial reopening in December
