Founder Alexander Streltsov created the concept of cirque paired with symphony in 1998 in a special PBS production with the Cincinnati Pops. Streltsov, a circus veteran from Moscow, is the only aerialist to perform with the Bolshoi Ballet. After winning the gold medal at the prestigious Festival du Mondial in Paris, he starred in a Broadway production. His music and programming sensibilities combined with his performance background to provide a program with stunning three-dimensional visual and musical elements. Classical masterpieces are perfectly choreographed to the elegant movements of cirque artists, elevating cirque artistry to a fine arts level.

Cirque de la Symphonie performs with dozens of orchestras across North America and beyond each season. Sold-out venues feature a wave of new faces, including families, students, and young professionals, many witnessing a live orchestra for the first time. Something magical happens when these cirque veterans take the stage in front of the live orchestra. Audiences are mesmerized by aerialists flying over their heads. Children are amazed at the wizardry of juggling feats and magical acts. The strength and flexibility of strongmen and contortionists leave audiences astounded. Everyone departs with smiles beaming from their faces.