Princess Stephanie of Monaco officially launched on Tuesday the 40th Monte Carlo International Circus Festival.

Rehearsals time had begun at the erected marquee in the district of Fontvieille, not far from the Principality. Performances start this Thursday, January 14th. For the next 10 days -until January-24, like every year at this time of the year, the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival will thrill many Monegasques, especially Princess Stephanie of Monaco who is President of the event, the little sister of Prince Albert II has never hid her passion for arts. And with a wide smile she took pictures this January 12 alongside artists and elephants at the presentation of the 40th edition.

Launched in 1974 by her father the late Prince Rainier III of Monaco on the occasion of 25 years of his reign, this festival celebrates indeed this year its 40th anniversary. Stephanie also wanted to mark this anniversary, invite the best award-winning artists in the last 15 years.

Last year the mother of 2 who transmitted her love for the arts to her daughter Pauline Ducret -who is currently studying in New York, and is chairman of the international jury of "New Generation", a circus competition held in Monaco for young artists. The Sovereign Prince Albert will attend this year's opening night or other representation with his wife Princess Charlene and their little twin Jacques the hereditary prince and princess Gabriella, now aged 13 months. We can not wait to see them attend
Photo Credits: Paris Match