Welcome
It’s always a pleasure to welcome people to this magical building, as soon as you enter this legendary arena you can sense the 120 years of history.
We cant wait for you to experience this truly breathtaking show, a show that once again brings together to worlds very best circus talent. It is our mission and passion to continue to be at the very forefront of the circus industry and The Hippodrome is now firmly established as one of the most iconic and respected shows across the Britain and the world.
So welcome to the magic, excitement, hilarity, warmth and amazement of LIVE entertainment. Take your seats and experience The Greatest Show....
Jack Jay Producer & Director
One of the best european sport show teams with athletes from all over the Europe and UK. Mix of acrobatic skills and basketball/football freestyle. Energetic tricks and amazing atmosphere. Our group performed in major events like World Universiade 2013, World Basketball Championship 2014, UEFA Champions league FINAL 2019, European Volleyball championship 2017 and many others. CIRCUS events and GALAS, LIVE Concerts etc.
Steam Acrobatic group was created in 2012 and have been performing internationally, thrilling audiences with their amazing acts and abilities performing the jaw dropping trampoline wall and swing acts. All 6 men are professional sportsman from National Teams, each of his own country, three of which are masters of sports of international class for trampoline and three Master of Sports also for trampoline from Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Hungary and Spain. The trampoline show mixes the high technical level in such an urban atmosphere and jumps out of buildings where the bodies tune in to an exciting choreography. The sensational Swing Act makes bodies fly in a dance of spectacular acrobatics and impeccable technique.
7th December 2024 to 5th January 2025
Peter Jay bought this legendary building in 1978 and it soon became the cornerstone of an already thriving entertainment company. Jays World of Entertainment also includes The Windmill Theatre which now houses an amazing indoor adventure golf, The Empire Theatre and The Royalty, now an ARC multiplex cinema. Peter is close to celebrating 44 years in the circus, and is recognised as one of the leading visionaries and pioneers of the art form. On top of the Hippodrome he also spent 9 years at The Tower Circus and 6 years at The Superdome in Blackpool. He has also produced and directed summer seasons with some of the biggest names in show business including Cilla Black, Michael Barrymore, Freddie Starr, Sid James and Jim Davidson. Before he even began producing shows he had a pop career was the drummer of Peter Jay and the Jaywalkers, a successful group in the sixties who toured extensively with The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner and The Beach Boys. Peter’s band was the first ever seen by young David Jones who was so impressed by the big saxophone sound (he was a sax player) that he changed his stage name to David Jay before becoming the immortal David Bowie. Now Peter is the artistic curator of The Hippodrome, he oversaw the creation of The Hippodrome
Backstage Museum and continues to add to the magical atmosphere of this building’s interior. Peter’s wife Christine Jay is in charge of the mammoth task of securing the amazing circus talent that we see each year and ensuring their safe passage into and around the UK. Months before the start of each show she is beginning discussions with government agencies to secure work permits and visas. She also has a longstanding link to the entertainment heritage of Great Yarmouth as the daughter of legendary Yarmouth Showman Gordon Edwards, we created the much loved Garibaldi and Ocean Room entertainment venues.
The day to day running of the building, alongside show creation and direction is now done by Peter and Christine’s sons Ben and Jack Jay. Ben Jay is the
managing director of the company, he oversees all the buildings and the vast sta operations, including front of house, promotional and performing artists. Ben’s experience is vast in live show production, beginning in stage management across theatres in Great Yarmouth and then pioneering a new approach to circus lighting that has revolutionised the industry. The Hippodrome now produces 4 shows a year, which requires a great deal of technical planning, so it really is a 365 days a year job. His fiancée Estelle Clifton is the choreographer for all Hippodrome productions, she works closely with the family to execute the artistic vision of each new production. This is not just the dance elements of the show but also includes all the swimming routines. Before coming to The Hippodrome she performed for many years in live shows and TV appearances including the Royal
Variety Performance. Alongside the integral production work she does for each show she is also the Principle of Dance Estelle a hugely successful dance school based here in the building. Through her 20 years here she has nurtured so much amazing talent that has gone on to perform professionally in our world class shows. In fact some of the dancers you see today have been with Estelle since they were just 5 years old!Jack Jay is the producer and director of The Hippodrome circus, he has grown up at this circus and had his first job aged just 7 spinning plates before the show. He has appeared for the last 11 years as the host of the show, alongside his responsibilities as producer. Jack has overseen the creation of 2 awarding winning new shows here at The Hippodrome and continues to push the shows to new heights. Jack an avid football fan has just been voted Yarmouth Town’s new President. Each season sees new challenges for the whole family as they continue to push the boundaries, attempting to make each show bigger and better. The artistic vision of Jack is brought to life by the tireless hard work of Christine, the technical and logistical work of Ben and the choreography of Estelle. Peter’s longstanding dream to create the greatest circus venue in the world continues to expand and be pushed forward by this family team.
Legendary British mountain trails bike star, an 8 times Guinness world record breaker and 6 times British trails mountain bike Champion. For over 10 years he has been ranked in the top 10 in the world. His unique skills showcase makes an instant impact, jumping mere inches from the audience and then right to the top of raised hippodrome stages. British Champion
Andrei said ‘It’s amazing to be so close to the audience and hear their gasps, for the last few years I’ve been touring with Top Gear Live in arenas around the globe to audiences of 10,000 upwards. But this is so fun.’
Andrei just appeared on America’s Got Talent where Simon Cowell said, ‘really inventive, really exciting, you make something unbelievably impossible look easy’.
Your host Jack Jay and Johnny Mac are celebrating 15 years performing at The Hippodrome circus. Their unique brand of charismatic comedy has become a huge favourite across the years.
Jack is the youngest son of Christine and Peter Jay, along with being the ringmaster of the show he is also the show’s producer and director. Jack’s presenting skills have seen him appear in arenas across the world as a Sports broadcaster for the International Shooting Federation, including presenting all shooting events at the London 2012 Olympic Games.
His on screen presenting has earned Jack 2 prestigious Royal Television Society Awards and Jack also created his own BBC radio programme The Jack Jay Show, on BBC Radio Norfolk.
Jack is also proud to be part of the entertainment fraternity and charity funding raising organisation The Water Rats. His passion for the community of Great Yarmouth stretches beyond The Hippodrome shows, he is also the President of Great Yarmouth Town Football Club and director of their Community organisation GYTCIC.
Award winning comedian & actor Johnny Mac was born in Scotland and has been entertaining audience for more than 20 years.
Throughout his career Johnny has raised laughter levels with his quick wit and engaging personality in a string of theatres.
Johnny first appeared at The Hippodrome in 2009 as part of ‘Celebrate’ a special show marking Peter Jays 30th year of Hippodrome ownership. Since then he’s been an absolute family favourite. Johnny also co writes and leads our amazing themed autumn and easter shows Pirates Live and Halloween Spooktacular
Without question Johnny is one of the most sought after pantomime stars in the country. He has appeared in some of the biggest theatres including the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh, the SECC Armadillo, The Pavilion Theatre Glasgow, and The Kings Theatre Glasgow, attracting critical acclaim.
Johnny has also toured all over the UK with his stand-up routines and starred in many venues during their popular summer seasons.
Back in Scotland Johnny has also co-produced and starred in the smash hit production of “The Francie & Josie Show” playing Josie, a character created and made famous by Rikki Fulton. This show has seen sellout success for the past four years, and Johnny feels very lucky to keep the memory and comedy routines of Rikki Fulton & Jack Milroy (Francie & Josie) alive.
Skating Ramos are Adrian, who comes from England, and Jennifer from France. They are a married couple with an impressive and fast paced roller skating stunt act. Speed, timing and above all communication is needed for this thrilling act. In addition, their aerial strap act is truly unique with Jennifer holding her husband whilst flying through the air. Skating Ramos were nominated for the Best act of the Year in Denmark 2023. And won Best Act at Prague Circus Festival 2020
Your hosts JACK JAY and JOHNNY MAC
welcome you to the historic Hippodrome Circus
With the Estelle Clifton Dancers ************************************************************
Introducing incredible performers from around the world
Welcome to
CHAMPIONS
************************************************************
Masters of Acrobatics STEAM ACRO, with sensational SWING
DIVING
From Uzbekistan, Spain, Hungary and Ukraine ************************************************************
JOHNNY MAC RETURNS
The master of Mayhem is back! ************************************************************
From France, breathtaking Roller-skating skills
SKATING
RAMOS
************************************************************
Jack & Johnny “Becoming a Champion” ************************************************************
Basketball acrobatic team
JUMP SQUAD
From Ukraine, Poland Norway and UK ************************************************************
Contenders ready… with JACK & JOHNNY ************************************************************
ANDREI BURTON’S Mountain Bike Stunts
From the UK, World record breaker and 6 times British Champion. ************************************************************
15 MINUTE INTERMISSION
Fully licensed bar in the circle. Popcorn, ice cream, snacks, drinks, novelties, and DVDs are on sale in the foyer. Cafe 1903 open for co ee, tea, cold drinks, homemade bakes and more.
★ Producer and Director - Jack Jay ★ Curator - Peter Jay ★
★ Talent coordinator - Christine Jay ★ General Manager - Ben Jay ★ ★ Choreography - Estelle Clifton ★ Lighting Design - Ben Jay ★
★ Theatre Manager - Amy O’Brien ★ Lighting Operator - Adam Roll ★ ★ Sound Engineer - Jonathan Soares ★ Visual and Video design - Richie Hurren ★
★ Drums & Percussion - Cameron Thompson, Alfie Deleval, Tom Keyte ★ Front of House runner - Josh Jay ★ ★ Stage Manager - Madalin Mirea • Stage Crew - Adam Lowe ★
★ Spotlight Operators - Toby Manning, Corben Reynolds, Jazmine Gill, Jordon Poskitt, Billy Baker, Dom Booyens, Elisse White ★
★ Poster Photography - Nick Warner ★ Hippodrome costume design - Simona Gheorghe ★ Poster & Leaflet Design - Jack Jay & Richie Hurren ★
★ Programme Photography - David Street ★ Programme Design - Micropress Printers Ltd ★
SYNCRO TRAMPOLINE created by STEAM ACRO
From Uzbekistan, Spain, Hungary and Ukraine ************************************************************
Don’t stop the beat with JACK & JOHNNY ************************************************************
From Italy, World renowned tennis Juggling sensation GLENN FOLCO ************************************************************
From Mexico the stunning skill and balance of DUO GO ************************************************************
JACK vs JOHNNY for the Championship
************************************************************
THE LEGENDARY WATER SPECTACULAR
Featuring the HIPPODROME CIRCUS SHOW SWIMMERS ************************************************************
Introducing from Tanzania the poise and balance of THE MOHAMED BROTHERS ************************************************************
Don’t want to Miss a thing
From Mexico, DUO RAMOS on the aerial straps with THE HIPPODROME SHOW SWIMMERS ************************************************************
FINALE
With the entire cast of the Summer Spectacular ************************************************************
Due to the hazardous nature of circus this running order could be subject to change at anytime.
DISCOVER A TREASURE TROVE OF MEMORIES IN The Circus Museum
After the show visit the Circus Museum backstage, the entrance is under the ring entrance opposite the drum stage. See over 100 years of circus memories, the old stables and 1930’s generator, plus much, much, more.
NEW CAFÉ 1903
Open every day visit NEW Café 1903 for fantastic home made snacks & drinks including a fully licensed bar all set in the amazing atmosphere of the CIRCUS CAFÉ on the left hand side of the Hippodrome building next to Entrance 2.
Over a hundred years of circus memorabilia. You can visit the museum after every circus and water spectacular. As seen on television programmes: Salvage Hunters with Drew Pritchard, Antiques Road Trip and on BBC's Flog It! with Paul Martin. After the show visit the Circus Museum backstage, the entrance is under the ring entrance opposite the drum stage.
ADULTS £1 | Children 50P
Gabriela Ramos and Omar Lazcano, coming from families outside the entertainment world, met by chance in a circus in Mexico in 2013, and it was not until the end of 2016 that they got together to share their passion for the circus and created an act together Perch balance. Since 2017 they have performed in countries such as China, Canada, Mexico, Peru, Spain, Guatemala and France. Always trying to improve themselves, duo GO tries to take balance to another level.
The Mohamed Brothers have mastered the art of hand-balancing. They are great and professional performer original from East Africa Tanzania. They have previously performed in France, Germany, Sweden & Turkey.
Glenn Folco belongs to the seventh generation of circus performers, from which Glenn became a professional juggler specializing in tennis rackets in 2011. Since then, Glenn has had the honour of performing at very prestigious venues and received a special prize at the International Circus Festival of Italy, he is the first juggler to be sponsored by famous tennis brands such as Dunlop.
Tamara Bustos – Head girl
Tamara has trained since a young age and went on to gain a national diploma in dance, after being a former student she has now gone on to be a teacher for the in-house dance company “Dance Estelle”. Tamara has been a dancer & synchronised swimmer at the Hippodrome for over 13 years where she also performs fire in all in-house shows. She is excited to be returning for another season as head girl.
Ellie Lowe
Ellie trained at Dance Estelle and moved on to study at Evolution Foundation College & Master’s Performing Arts. Ellie has been assisting in ‘Dance Estelle’ for 6 years where she enjoys guiding the younger generation in dance. She excited to perform at the Hippodrome Circus for her 5th year.
Kyra Foyster
Kyra has trained with Dance Estelle and studied at City College Norwich in level 3 dance. She is now going into her second year at University of Lincoln studying a BA Honours degree in dance. She is thrilled to be back dancing in this beautiful venue for another exciting season.
Ti any Calder
Ti any has danced since the age of 3 at Dance Estelle and now has a level 3 extended diploma in performing Arts. Ti any has also recently taken on teaching performing arts and has performed in many dance shows with ‘Dance Estelle’ and the ‘Elite’ Cabaret Group. To perform at the Hippodrome circus has been a lifelong ambition and she has spent many years working exceptionally hard to achieve this. She is so grateful to be given this opportunity to be back at The Hippodrome.
Maddison Ward
Maddison has been dancing with ‘Estelle Clifton’ from a very young age. She is now working towards her level 3 extended diploma in performing arts at City College, Norwich. She is excited the be selected for swing for her first summer season here at The Hippodrome Circus as it’s been a lifetime goal for her.
Elise Jarvis
Elise graduated from Bird College in 2021. Elise has performed in many professional productions. And this is her first season performing here at the iconic Hippodrome Circus.
Georgia King
Georgia has completed her training with ‘Dance Estelle’ here at The Hippodrome. Whilst in training she has performed as part of the ‘Elite’ cabaret troupe that performs at various entertainment venues and events. She is currently studying dance at East Norfolk 6th Form College in performing arts. Georgia is thrilled be picked for a swing position for her first summer season.
Maria Shurmur
Maria started dancing here at the circus as one of Estelle’s students at the age of 3. She then got her level 3 extended diploma in performing arts at college and has now moved away to train in musical theatre at Addict Dance Academy. She is so excited to come back home and be able to dance in this year’s Summer Spectacular here at the Hippodrome.
Isabella Firman
Isabella Sophia Firman is a graduate of Laine theatre arts and has undergone performance experiences within her training including panto and working with industry creatives on Kipps the musical and other shows. She is very excited to be performing within the cast of the hippodrome circus this summer.
SWINGS:
Meredith Winship
Meredith started dancing at the age of 2 at the Anglia Region Theatre School (ARTS), where she has gained her Associate Teaching qualifications in Ballet, Contemporary and Modern. After achieving a first degree in Contemporary Dance at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, Meredith embarked on her professional career touring with SAY Dance Company and has recently returned from a year in Berlin with DART Dance Company. Meredith is delighted to be joining the Hippodrome team this summer season.
Carla Lambourn
Carla has been training with Estelle Clifton from a very young age. She has just completed her level 2 in dance at City College Norwich and is continuing on to complete her level 3 dance diploma in September. Carla is very excited to be chosen as a swing for this summer season.
