Barcode started working together in 2011 when Tristan, Alexandra and Eric met at the National Circus School of Montreal. They toured together for three years with The 7 Fingers as original cast members on the show Sequence 8, thrilling audiences around the world. Soon after they were joined by Eve Bigel, a talented hand to hand flyer from France.
Together their careers have produced a string of highlights including a gold medal at SolyCirco festival for Alexandra's hoop act, a bronze medal at the Cirque de Demain festival for both Eric's cigar box juggling and Tristan and Eve's hand to hand acts, and a silver medal for the trio's Russian Bar act, as well as the Audience Choice award. They have performed on France's Got Talent, It's Showtime, and multiple times on Le Plus Grande Cabaret du Monde.
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In 2019, the team's passion and creative spirit pushed them to co-found, with Sophie Picard, Cirque Barcode. The four artists are at once co-founders, co artistic-directors and artists onstage, with Sophie as co-founder and General Manager of the company.
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Barcode's first original theatrical show, Sweat & Ink premiered in 2019. Their second show, Branché, a collaboration with the group Acting for Climate, works to realize their goal of more sustainable touring and use their circus to draw attention to the climate crisis.
BARCODE BEGINNINGS
Artists, Co-Founders and Artistic Directors
Co-Founder and General Manager
Eric
Bates
Eric has been juggling for as long as he can remember. When not doing circus he works as a photographer and videographer, climbs, and writes about his travels in his blog, Beautiful Problems.
Alexandra Royer
Alex's first passion was horseback riding, and she endeavored to bring the same power and grace to circus. When not onstage she likes to draw, take photos, and travel. She is also able to remember everyone she's ever met.
Tristan Nielsen
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Tristan began circus at a young age, where he found a perfect match for his supportive personality. Besides being able to port just about every discipline, he enjoys hiking, reading and taking motorcycle trips.
Eve
Bigel
Eve started in gymnastics, but was soon drawn to circus. She performed in Cie XY for many years, as well as taking a stunt course. When not at the top of a human pyramid she likes to draw and build things with her hands.
Sophie
Picard
Founding member and general director, Sophie has accompanied Barcode since they met when she was the director of operations for The 7 Fingers of the Hand. Convinced of the talent and potential of barcode, she is essential to the structure of the company and its development.
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