In a proud moment for British circus, Gandeys has been officially recognised with the 2025 BigTopLabel – one of Europe’s highest honours in live performance.

We are thrilled to announce that Gandeys Circus has officially received the BigTopLabel (BTL) for 2025 — one of the highest honours in the circus world. Often called the “Michelin star of circus arts,” the BigTopLabel is awarded to three companies every year and only a select few circuses across Europe that demonstrate exceptional quality, creativity, safety, and professionalism.

This year, Gandeys proudly joins two other distinguished recipients:

  • Tom Duffy’s Circus – Ireland

  • Wereldkerstcircus Carré (produced by Stardust) – Netherlands

The award ceremony took place on Tuesday 14 October 2025, at the European Parliament in Brussels — a truly prestigious setting befitting the importance of this recognition.

A Rigorous and Thorough Selection Process

The BigTopLabel is not simply given; it’s earned through a demanding selection process. With dozens of applications from across Europe, only the very best companies are chosen after detailed evaluations. The process includes a comprehensive background assessment, multiple on-site inspections, and reviews by independent experts.

The BTL Committee then met to examine the inspection reports and voted on who would receive this mark of excellence. Gandeys’ success is a reflection of our dedication to delivering outstanding live circus entertainment with the highest standards in every aspect — from artistry and production quality to safety and audience care.

Representing British Circus on Europe’s Cultural Stage

Receiving the BigTopLabel places Gandeys Circus firmly among Europe’s most respected circus companies. As one of the UK’s oldest family-run circuses with over 100 years of history, we are proud to uphold a tradition of live touring performance that remains as relevant and vibrant today as ever.

The award highlights our commitment to balancing the cherished traditions of circus with ongoing innovation and a passion for captivating audiences of all ages.

The Ceremony at the European Parliament

The award ceremony was a memorable event attended by cultural leaders, circus professionals, and EU representatives. The Guest of Honour was Georg Häusler, Director for Culture, Creativity and Sport at the European Commission (DG EAC), who spoke about the important role circus plays in European culture and the arts.

To receive this label in such a prestigious venue underlines the significance of circus arts in Europe’s cultural heritage and their continued evolution and popularity.

A Shared Achievement with Our Team and Audiences

This award belongs to every single member of the Gandeys family — performers, production crew, logistics staff, and everyone behind the scenes who work tirelessly to create the magic of the big top.

It’s also a tribute to our loyal audiences, whose enthusiasm and support keep live circus alive and thriving. In a world increasingly dominated by digital entertainment, the unique thrill of a live show under the big top remains unmatched, and this recognition celebrates that enduring connection.

Looking Forward

As we celebrate this incredible achievement, we remain focused on the future. The BigTopLabel is a symbol of our promise to continue pushing boundaries, raising standards, and delivering extraordinary circus experiences that enchant and inspire.

For more details on the BigTopLabel and other recipients, visit www.bigtoplabel.com. We’ll also be sharing photos and highlights from the ceremony on our social media channels — so be sure to follow us!

Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey so far. This award motivates us to keep reaching for new heights and sharing the wonder of circus with you all.

The Gandeys Circus Team