As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, world-renowned school for contemporary circus and physical theatre, Circomedia, is throwing a very special fundraising event on Saturday 23rd March. Funds raised across the evening will go towards cementing the charity’s future for another 30 years. The 30th Pearl Anniversary event will raise essential funds to support Circomedia’s circus programmes for children, young people, communities and circus artists.

A unique way to raise vital funds for the continued survival of Circomedia, guests are encouraged to ‘dress to impress’ as they are invited to St Paul’s Church on Portland Square for a stylish evening of mesmerising entertainment, including extraordinary circus performances presented in cabaret style.

Those scoring a ticket can expect stunning aerial artistry, awe-inspiring juggling, jaw-dropping acrobatics, and appearances from special guests from across the creative industries. Entertainment will begin as soon as guests arrive, with walk-about performances taking place both inside and outside of the venue.

Headlining the evening’s entertainment and very generously donating their talents to the line-up are world-class R&B and soul singer Ruby Turner, accompanied by John O’Hara of Jethro Tull on piano. They will share the stage with award-winning juggler and compere for the evening, Rod Laver, alongside a programme of stunning circus performances from Circomedia’s own alumni and students.

Acts will include a breathtaking aerial hoop piece by magnetic aerial duo Jalina, high-octane acrobatics with Fingers Crossed Circus and astonishing hat juggling from Charlie Brown, as well as circus and dance performances from the academy’s current students.

As part of the glamorous fundraising event, Circomedia will be holding an auction with East Bristol Auctions, which will feature a range of ‘money can’t buy’ prizes that could see winners brushing shoulders with the stars or even learning new circus skills with some of the biggest names in the industry. Prizes include an exclusive day-for-two on the set for the filming of Channel 5’s extremely popular TV drama ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ as personal guests of show director, Andy Hay, as well as four tickets to Mama Mia at The Novello Theatre on the West End as guests of the show’s acclaimed writer Catherine Johnson.

Zannah Chisholm, Chief Executive Officer at Circomedia, said: “The Spring Gala is a celebratory event as part of our 30th anniversary. It will be a joyous evening that guests will remember for a long time. At the same time, it will raise vital funds for the continued survival of Circomedia. Like many charities, companies and organisations across the country, we are under enormous financial pressure. By taking part in this wonderful event, guests can rest assured that the money raised will help to keep Circomedia’s work as an important part of the cultural life of Bristol and beyond, whilst protecting the future of performing arts in the city and wider region.”

Rod Laver, Juggler and Entertainer and Circomedia’s Higher Education Course Leader, said:“We can’t think of a better way to celebrate our 30th anniversary than by raising funds to support and nurture the next generation of circus students and artists. Seeing people dressed in their glitzy and glamorous best, perhaps with a circus twist, while our professionals, alumni and students perform will absolutely make for an evening to remember. The theatrical culture is so vibrant and exciting, and it’s a pleasure to be able to host an event in such an iconic circus space like St Paul’s Church, where so much talent has grown from the classes held there.”

Circomedia’s Spring Gala will take place from 7pm on Saturday 23rd March. Tickets for the event can be purchased for £100 per person at www.circomedia.com/spring-gala/.

Tickets include the evening’s entertainment, a welcome drink sponsored by 6 O’Clock Gin, food from Bristol’s own Kate’s Kitchen, and a paddle to bid in the auction. Those unable to attend but who would still like to support Circomedia can reach out to [email protected] about their Supporter Packages or can make a donation at https://www.circomedia.com/donate/

Main image: Courtesy of Circoimedia