The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Tralee to fly high during Circus Festival
‘MIGHTY oaks from little acorns grow’ is the phrase that springs to mind when listening to Tralee’s Con Horgan speak about the upcoming National Circus Festival of Ireland extravaganza.
The festival, which will run in venues all around Tralee from November 8 to November 11, has was first set up in 2001 and, according to the festival founder, he said that the festival has been riding the crest of a wave for years now.
In these early days, Con said that by setting up the festival he simply wanted to bring together circus performers and groups from all over the country so that they could enjoy their shared passion together.
“We’re going from strength to strength since it started, and it’s been thriving. It’s amazing to look back at these small beginnings and see how far we have come. It’s a really exciting time for circus in Ireland,” said Con, speaking to The Kerryman.
It certainly looks to be a jam-packed schedule of events over the four days as Con explains.
“We have a four-day circus convention with an acrobatic and aerial space; we have family friendly shows all weekend in Siamsa Tíre with artists from all over the world; children’s circus workshops on Saturday and Sunday; along with two parades through the town over the weekend as well,” Con finished.
Con said that a special thanks must go to their sponsors, the Arts Council, Siamsa Tíre, Fáilte Ireland, Tralee Chamber Alliance, IOMSP and Kerry County Council, whose support the festival would not be able to do without.
For a full list of the weekend’s activities, ticket prices and start times, head on over to the National Circus Festival of Ireland’s website.