Tohu, la Cité des arts du cirque

Tohu, la Cité des arts du cirque is a circus arts center in the Saint-Michel neighborhood of Montreal dedicated to training and performances. The complex features a distinctive circular performance hall, training studios, a restaurant, shops, and outdoor spaces that together create a comprehensive venue for artistic exploration and presentation.

The center was established in the late 1990s to address the Montreal circus community's need for dedicated training and performance spaces. Its development was closely tied to the growth of the local circus scene that transformed the city into an international hub for circus arts.

The name comes from Hebrew, meaning 'chaos' or 'void,' symbolizing artistic transformation through circus arts. Visitors experience a living community where performers and students work together daily, creating an environment centered on creative expression and skill development.

The venue is easily accessible by public transit and features ramps and elevators for people with mobility challenges. Visitors should allow time to explore the different areas, as the facility spans multiple levels and outdoor sections.

A remarkable feature is the nearby Cirque du Soleil international headquarters, which makes this location a global hub for innovative circus arts. This concentration of premier circus institutions in one neighborhood is rare anywhere in the world.