It’s time to run away to the circus as The National Circus Festival of Ireland lands in Tralee this November
Every November, Tralee becomes a haven for the eccentric and wonderful world of contemporary circus as the National Circus Festival of Ireland rolls into town. National and international performers take to the town, showcasing their physical skills and strength in unique & highly entertaining shows to delight their audiences. Alongside world-class performances, the festival offers workshops for beginners and experts as well parades, free on-street entertainment and lots more!
Founded by the Fanzini Productions in 2001, the festival has steadily grown in numbers, offerings and accomplishment. Founder and director Con Horgan, is wildly excited to share this year’s festival with the people of Tralee ; “The magnificent Company Baccalá Friday night show, the two mind-blowing Circus Siamsa shows on Saturday, the joyous & highly entertaining free parades through the town, the epic fire show in our gorgeous town park and the funky festival club on Friday night will all be highlights. We at NCFI can’t wait for people to witness these incredible shows from all over the world lighting up Tralee town!”
The festival had a busy year this year having won 2 stages of the National Lottery Good Causes Award in the category of Arts & Culture, bringing NCFI through to the national final which will be televised on Virgin Media Ireland in early November. Con Horgan said of his excitement about the win, “We are beside ourselves with excitement that our 18 years of work, passion and commitment is being recognised amongst such a wonderful list of good causes nationally. We are humbled and honoured to have won the first two stages of the National Lottery Good Causes Awards to get us to the national final in the arts & culture category. This is a big moment for The National Circus Festival of Ireland & for contemporary circus in Ireland.” The festival will now go on to represent Kerry in the upcoming finals on November 3rd.
The festival is also proud to support and be supported by local businesses as well as founders the Arts Council, Kerry County Council, Tralee Chamber Alliance, IOMST insurance, Fáilte Ireland and of course Siamsa Tíre Theatre where performances will take place throughout the weekend. Croí Restaurant is offering discounts to weekend attendees as well as Tralee Holiday Lodge providing accommodation.
The National Circus Festival of Ireland runs from the 8th-11th of November with tickets on sale now at www.siamsatire.com. A host of free entertainment, parades and workshops are on offer to the public throughout the weekend. Keep an eye on www.circusfestival.ie for more information and to view the packed festival programme.
