Monaco will host a spectacular Christmas show at the Fontvieille Big Top on 22nd and 23rd December, with all proceeds benefiting charities supported by Princess Charlene, who serves as High Patron of the event.
The show, titled ‘Monaco Under the Stars’, was born from a meeting between Princess Charlene and Hassan El Hajjami, an internationally renowned choreographer and former artistic director at Cirque du Soleil. The Princess personally initiated the project with the aim of offering children a grand spectacle filled with dreams and light during the festive season.
Created by Compagnie HASPOP and directed by El Hajjami, known professionally as Haspop, the production blends hip-hop dance, visual poetry and contemporary storytelling in a dreamlike universe brought to life by international artists. The performance follows young Elliott, guided by a mysterious music box, as he takes audiences on a journey through time where Monaco is adorned with all the magic of the year-end festivities.
The production represents a universal tale designed to enchant all generations whilst conveying a message of solidarity and generosity that extends beyond mere entertainment.
All proceeds support Princess Charlène’s charitable causes
Rather than simply providing entertainment, ‘Monaco Under the Stars’ serves as a charitable event with all ticket revenue divided between two organisations close to the Princess. The Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, which focuses on drowning prevention, education through sport and child protection, will receive half the proceeds. The remaining funds will support the Animal Protection Society of Monaco, where Princess Charlene serves as President, continuing its work in animal protection and welfare.
International dance star brings unique vision to Monaco
Hassan El Hajjami has established himself as a leading figure in contemporary performance art, having made his mark on the world’s greatest stages. An iconic dancer in Cirque du Soleil’s Beatles LOVE show who caught the attention of Michael Jackson, El Hajjami became a finalist on America’s Got Talent and appeared on France’s Got Talent before serving as choreographer for Star Academy.
He spent more than 15 years as artistic director at Cirque du Soleil, where he developed his distinctive style combining urban dance with contemporary circus arts. In 2020, he founded Compagnie HASPOP | Cirque du Grand Lyon, which now performs innovative and spectacular creations around the world.
His artistic universe, positioned at the intersection of urban culture and grand popular entertainment, gives ‘Monaco Under the Stars’ a strong artistic identity that remains accessible to all audiences whilst maintaining a resolutely modern approach.
Performance details and ticket information
The show runs for 60 minutes and is suitable for children aged three and above. Three performances are scheduled at the Fontvieille Big Top, with shows on 22nd December at 4pm, and two performances on 23rd December at 11am and 4pm.
Stay updated with Monaco Life: sign up for our free newsletter, catch our podcast on Spotify, and follow us across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Tik Tok.
Photo source: Chapiteau de Fontvidelle