Circomedia are throwing open the doors to their St Paul’s Church venue to and inviting local families and community members in to try out a huge array of creative activities in their free Open Doors community event on Saturday 2nd March.

Hosted by the internationally renowned circus academy in their iconic city centre heritage building, the event has been curated by two well-known local creatives, Naomi Davis and Norman ‘Rubba’ Stephenson. Both have vast experience curating events in the area, and between them, have programmed a range of showstopping activities showcasing some of the fantastic creativity from St. Paul’s and across Bristol.

The unique event will kick off with Youth Circus ‘Have a Go’ sessions, where children and young people can try their hand at skills including juggling, stilts, tightwire walking and trapeze. Rubba himself will lead an African drumming workshop in the main space, before setting the stage for spoken word poetry, folklore storytelling, a Young Bristol’s Got Talent showcase, a performance from Sheba Soul and more.

Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy Play Wooden’s children’s play zone, purchase delicious Caribbean food from Esme’s catering, and visit the Bristol Bus Boycott at 60-stand to commemorate and learn more about this important time in local and national history.

Naomi Davis, Owner of Chaysestar Entertainment CIC,said: “Holding open door events like this one allows us to nurture a new generation of entertainers, all while offering a fun day out for families to enjoy for free. Learning new skills is a great way to build confidence in young people, and to help them unlock their potential in a really fun way.”

Norman ‘Rubba’ Stephenson, Circomedia board member, dance practitioner and campaigner,said: “St Paul’s is a hub of passion and creativity, which draws on a huge variety of influences from many different cultures. We want to celebrate this whilst championing local artists and young people. Events like this are a great way to do that, all while securing the future of performance and circus skills in the community.”

Circomedia are pleased to be opening their doors to the public as part of their 30th anniversary celebrations, inviting the local community in to explore the space, take part in activities led by local creatives and businesses, and even try your hand at some circus skills – all for free!

Circomedia’s Community Open Doors event is free to attend, and no booking is required. Visitors are invited to drop-in to St Paul’s Church between 11am-6pm on Saturday 2nd March and all are welcome. Donation points for Circomedia will be situated throughout the venue for those who wish to support the school.

Photos are courtesy of Circomedia.