The National Circus Festival (October 4 to 6) is set to turn Mullumbimby Showground into a spectacular circus wonderland with the country’s best circus artists delivering a world-class program of unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages.
From awe-inspiring acrobatics, to international circus, and sensational cabaret, the festival offers something for everyone, celebrating the diversity and magic of the world of circus.
Among the many standout acts is YUCK Circus, making waves with their show Naughties, a hilarious tribute to the 1990s. Fresh from their Edinburgh Fringe success, YUCK Circus promises a vibrant blend of throwback energy featuring influences from Backstreet Boys and Britney Spears.
Also featured is Casus Circus, returning with their critically-acclaimed production You & I. This international company is celebrated for their breathtaking acrobatics and poignant storytelling, exploring themes of love and identity with profound artistry.
Melbourne’s Escalate by Throw Catch Collective offers a thrilling fusion of rhythm, movement and juggling, and the Belfast-based Snatch Circus delivers Snatch and Grab, a chaotic yet captivating show filled with dangerous juggling and absurd acrobatics.
There’s also plenty of family fun with a wonderful line-up of kid-friendly acts including Fritz featuring an eccentric magician’s rabbit; Ding Dilemmas, a comedy set in the whimsical Ding Hotel; an interactive circus dance party for kids Disco Fiasco; The Pitts Family Circus; Corie Hurry with his fun-filled Planet Lava; and Scott Hone entertains with his BMX Trick Bike Show.
Taking place across four venues in the Mullumbimby Showground, a highlight is the return of The Famous Spiegeltent, a 1920s Art Nouveau marvel renowned for hosting the world’s greatest cabaret, circus, and burlesque artists. The Spiegeltent will host a range of sensational performers, including Jake Silvestro (CIRCA, Circus Oz), Anna Fisher, Mario Queen of the Circus, and Clare Bartholomew (Die Roten Punkte).
The Brunswick Picture House will also present their popular Cheeky Cabaret and Lil’ Cheeky, offering a blend of sophisticated cabaret and thrilling circus acts.
Jazz Family, a roving jazz club of some of the Northern Rivers’ most exciting musicians are on hand to put the dance in the party with a swampy, riverside juke joint energy led by trumpeter Harry James Angus (The Cat Empire) and featuring many special guests. You can also sing your heart out with Shire Choir’s unique collective singing experience led by Melia Naughton.
National Circus Festival tickets are affordably priced, with one-day passes for children at $25 and adults at $70. For more details and tickets visit www.nationalcircusfestival.com. The festival sold out in 2022, so don’t hesitate!
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