From Cirque du Soleil to aerial ballet: how JOUBERT cotton textile cable took to the skies
When we think of Cirque du Soleil, we imagine spectacular performances, artists suspended in the air, moments of millimetric grace.
But in the shadow of these artistic flights of fancy, a discreet but essential textile element plays a crucial role: a technical cable with a cotton sheath, developed by Joubert Group.
Since 2004, Cirque du Soleil has relied on our textile expertise to guarantee the safety, fluidity and reliability of its aerial shows.
Cirque du Soleil, a worldwide reference in live entertainment
Founded in 1984 in Quebec, Cirque du Soleil has become an essential institution in the world of show business. Known for its creations combining acrobatics, theater, dance, music and spectacular visual effects, the company has revolutionized the world of traditional circus by integrating a strong artistic and narrative dimension.
Present in over 60 countries, Cirque du Soleil is renowned for its high technical standards and constant quest for scenic innovation.
For Joubert Group, working with such an organization is a source of immense pride, and a concrete demonstration of the reliability, technical expertise and textile know-how we bring to the performing arts and aerial acrobatics.
A unique immersion in the world of Cirque du Soleil
As a textile partner, we had the rare privilege of visiting the backstage area of a Las Vegas show, in the presence of the technical manager.
Seeing our cables installed on the aerial structures, tested by the acrobats, integrated into the choreography… it was a highlight for our entire team.
We were able to observe our products in real-life situations during the “Bungee Act” (a number performed with trapezes), subject to demanding dynamic constraints, in an environment where safety and fluidity of movement are paramount.
The visit concluded with an experience of the show itself. A grandiose show, where every aerial movement, every flight, was made possible – discreetly – by a textile cable designed in our workshops in France.
Back to basics: a technical and artistic challenge
This textile cable was first introduced by our Canadian customer Cordages Barry. Its strength, comfort and finish won over the Cirque du Soleil teams, who soon became direct JOUBERT GROUP customers.
It all began in the late 1990s, when our sales manager at the time identified a specific need in the entertainment world: to design a rope that was both robust and pleasant to the touch, perfectly suited to aerial acrobatics. With Claude Lergenmuller (Les Elastonautes company), he developed a textile cable with a cotton sheath.
Why cotton? This textile offers excellent abrasion resistance, natural suppleness, a pleasant feel and non-irritating contact with the skin. It’s the perfect combination of “technical textile” and high artistic standards.
A textile cable designed for the air
Joubert cotton cable, available in black or ecru, comes in 8 mm and 10 mm diameters. Manufactured in our workshops, it is braided with industrial precision. Mechanical strength, controlled elasticity, tactile comfort: everything is designed to meet the needs of suspended artists. Tested in real-life conditions, this cable is used by circus troupes, street shows and bungee trampoline installations. It is recognized for its durability, safety and adaptability.
Global success rooted in French know-how
Cotton cable has quickly conquered stages the world over. It embodies our group’s ability to combine industrial performance and customization. Our customers appreciate our reliability, consistent quality and technical responsiveness.
An invisible but vital link
On stage, the cable disappears from public view, but its role is central. It supports, accompanies and secures movement, without ever getting in the way. It is this powerful discretion that makes it a key element in modern aerial acrobatics.
At Joubert Group, every rope is the fruit of professional craftsmanship: rigorous selection of fibers, masterful braiding, thorough quality controls.
A versatile textile for creativity
Joubert cotton rope applications:
– Bungee trampolines and aerial leisure activities
– Circus acts and artistic creations
– Fixed or mobile scenic installations
– Immersive projects and innovative scenography
Its black or ecru finish, soft texture and sturdiness make it an ideal choice for professionals who demand the best.
A lasting relationship based on trust
Working with Cirque du Soleil is an honor, but each company, each park, each director we work with contributes to the evolution of our offer. It’s in this diversity of uses that our “textile know-how” comes into its own.
to find out more about our range of cotton-sheathed cables, or to discuss your specific needs in technical textiles for the moving arts.