1 FUNDING MULLUMBIMBYPARTNERSSHOWGROUND30 September - 2 October 2022 BROUGHT TO YOU BY Festivals Australia
2 Built in 1920 this Art Nouveau Grand Dame is the most beautiful and original of the last remaining Belgian Speigeltents. She is a star in her own right and has spent her lifetime at the bequest of festivals and fairgrounds throughout Europe, playing host to the world’s greatest cabaret artists, musicians and circus burlesque performers, including Marlene Dietric in the 1930’s. We are humbled and privileged to be bringing her to the Northern Rivers for the first time ever to be part of our festival. Her intimate booths, ornate bar and bevelled mirrored columns hold a million secrets. We hope you fall in love with her as much as we have.
The Famous Spiegeltent will host book readings, cabaret, new works, musicians and kids’ shows.
SPIEGELTENT
THEPRESENTING...FAMOUS
Alice Cadwell Festival Director Special
@nationalcircusfestival@nationalcircusfestival
We are proud to bring The Famous Spiegeltent to the region and honoured to celebrate the grand old dame’s 100th birthday. The venue will host the Brunswick Picture House’s signature Cheeky Cabaret. The Wheel of Death is not to be missed with its 12m high, 500kg steel pendulum. There is so much to experience across the whole Showground with spectacular circus that will have you on the edge of your seat. Join a workshop or travel through a 25m inflatable globe. Listen to some great musical acts programmed in collaboration with Mullum Music Festival. We have an outdoor cinema and local legends Roundabout Theatre present The Game. Five stages, two Big Tops, The Famous Spiegeltent, scrumptious food, inspiring connections, and so much FUN. Come join us for unexpected delights. This will be a weekend to remember.
National Circus Festival is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW NATIONALCIRCUSFESTIVAL.COM
JINGI WALLA
PartnersKeyWorkshopsTalksFestivalCabaretMusicFestivalEventsProgramProgram&ArtistsMap&ThoughtsInformation 2202 2018462228323842
Welcome to our National Circus Festival 2022, brought to you by Spaghetti Circus. A celebration of circus for EVERYONE! This is our fifth Circus Festival. The first was 21 years ago, led by Tony Rooke and Spaghetti Circus founder Leonie Mills OAM. This festival is unique, run by a world-leading regional youth circus that is owned by the community and raised on a matriarchal culture. We are humbled by the passion, tenacity and generosity of everyone involved – we could not have done it without you. Thank you. We are privileged to have been able to commission new works and local collaborations. After two postponed festivals, floods, fires and a pandemic, we need to connect more than ever. We have curated a program full of unique and inspiring acts showcasing industry elders, treasured First Nations artists and fresh young performers. The program is diverse with more than 220 world-class artists and 25 full shows. There’s cabaret, featuring circus, physical theatre, live music and dance with shows for families and adults as well as roving performers. Among it all, our own Spaghetti Circus presents its middle finger reaction to climate change inaction “Bails of Hey!”.
3 We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land, the Arakwal and Minjungbal people of the Bundjalung Nation, and pay respect to elders past and present.
SPECIAL4 EVENTS
Warren Brophy takes on The Wheel of Death, a 500kg steel pendulum that reaches a height of 12 metres. This thrilling act will see Warren perform acrobatics, skipping and even walking blindfolded all while maintaining his balance atop the rotating cage. This high adrenaline act is performed without the aid of safety nets or wires, making it a truly on the edge of your seat experience.
THE WHEEL OF DEATHDALE WOODBRIDGE-BROWN National Circus Festival MC Dale Woodbridge-Brown is an award-winning Kamilaroi man and circus artist from Mugindi. He was awarded the NAIDOC performer of 2019 and Indigenous circus performer 2021 by the Australian Circus Festival. Dale sports an impressive resume as ensemble member for international powerhouses Circus Oz, Briefs Factory and Casus Circus as well as holding his own as a formidable independent MC and artist. Dale’s dedication thrives due to his strong connection to his family, culture, and love of making people laugh.
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THE GLOBE
Dear National Circus Festival, It will definitely be fun. We really need fun right now. Big fun with lots of people. There will be a giant wheel to spin, dice, ladders and slides, pedestrians crossing, eggs and spoons, spots, riddles, flags, flashing lights (lots of those) and some dancing. You might have to go backwards at some point, or invert, the rules will be complicated and definitely change a lot. There will be penalties, head starts, obstacles, bribery and favourites. There will be rotten eggs, sore losers and some opportunities to cheat - in the name of fun. Anyway, you’re all invited. Sincerely, The Lollipop ladies.
The Globe Collective Part installation, part experimental play space, fully interactive and colourful. The Globe is a retired air balloon taking on a new life and aims to be a joyfully creative experience for everyone. Watch the space inflate from a distance or join in the playful experiences created inside. The Globe is sure to be a sight of great beauty at the festival that invigorates the playful spirit inside of us all.
Flycycle is a roving comedy piece performed in a slapstick, silent movie style. The Lephts (not to be confused with the Wrights) ride their magnificent flying machine in search of the perfect hill to test it in flight. Old world, absurd and completely intriguing.
ROUNDABOUT THEATRE PRESENTS TWO WORKS:
THEFLYCYCLEGAME
GRAVITY & OTHER MYTHS FRIDAY & FAMILYSUNDAYSHOW Cirque du Soleil with a fistful of grit. – UK Express
Photo Credit: Chris
A SIMPLE SPACE
Herzfeld
FESTIVAL6 PROGRAM
Brought to you by award winning company Gravity & Other Myths, A Simple Space, has achieved momentous international success, having performed more than 850 times across 34 countries and receiving multiple awards, most notably the IPAY Victor Award for People’s Choice. Seven acrobats push their physical limits without reserve; this performance is simultaneously raw, frantic and delicate. Supported by driving live percussion and presented so intimately that you can feel the heat, hear every breath, and be immersed in every moment. A Simple Space evokes real responses in audiences, something visceral rather than cerebral.
WERK IT is an all-star circus comedy romp. Celebrating working with high-vis, spandex and 9 to 5 with vitality and vigour! It’s the low carb lovechild of a tradie, a spin instructor and a cross-fit fiend.
WERK IT is big tricks delivered by a hip thrusting cast with more sass and swagger than a TLC videoclip. Some adult themes.
FRIDAY & SUNDAY
– FEST
WERKFRIDAY This Spaghetti Circus show is busting at the seams with local talent and a brandnew cast. Inspired by a reaction to climate change protests, this show is a middle finger response to being ignored and looked down on by politicians, media and the adult world, seen through the prism of a teenager’s world. The show is action-packed with acrobatics, aerials, teeterboard and most of all - fun. The sea is rising, and so are we - Bails of Hey! is not to be missed!
CIRCUS TRICK TEASE
IT
Photo Credit:
FAMILY SHOW 15+ SHOW A
Director DJ Garner Master Trainer Petrina Hutchinson SPAGHETTI CIRCUS PERFORMANCE TROUPE BAILS OF HEY! Hamish McCormick goddamn riot... few circus shows are this funny.
CASTING OFF Dynamic and gutsy with an abundance of absurdity, Casting Off is circus-asconversation that boldly challenges convention and topples expectation with raucous and poetic beauty. Casting Off stereotypes three generations of spirited women who talk, tumble, fly and balance precariously. The personal is political, the furious is funny and the acrobatics are downright dangerous. Self-directed and hand knitted. An exuberant accumulation of moments that shine a light on and relationships.
WINNER - Jacksons Lane & Total Theatre Best Circus Edinburgh Fringe 2018 WINNER - Melbourne Fringe Festival Best Circus 2018 WINNER - Adelaide Fringe Festival Best Circus and Physical Theatre 2019 A GOOD CATCH CIRCUS SATURDAY
women in playful, fruitful
radical
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BRUNSWICK PICTURE HOUSE ROOKE CHEEKY CABARET INTERLOPER FRIDAY & SATURDAY FRIDAY & SUNDAY 18+ CABARET
The town had no idea what to expect when the Brunswick Picture House flung open its doors with an outrageous, genre-bending, two-hour adult variety show, the Cheeky Cabaret. Its reputation has since spread like wildfire with its often weird but always fabulous line-up, selling out every month and attracting international artists who would ordinarily play much bigger stages. We’re thrilled to be bringing this cracker of a show to the National Circus Festival! Think you’ve seen it all? Think again… Limited capactity. An exploration of belonging, connection, humanity and identity in this new world we are all coming to terms with. These five will drop your jaw to the floor, then pick it back up for a good laugh, only to take your breath away all over again. The arrival of an uninvited stranger; a complex individual with baggage and wisdom, love and depth, struggles and triumphs. Interloper invites you to walk into a world you never knew existed, a place of harmonious dissonance. Using circus as our tool, ROOKE will reimagine what all of this means in 2022. A blurring of genres, a destruction of stereotypes, a welcoming for humankind into this new era.
DUMMIES CORP. THE SPLASH TEST DUMMIES SATURDAY SUNDAY FAMILY SHOW FAMILY SHOW
CORP.
DUMMIES
DON’T MESS WITH THE DUMMIES
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Lions and tigers and dummies, oh my! Set up camp and stampede into the jungle for an outlandish, circus filled extravaganza that will leave you chuckling like a monkey and roaring for more. Pack your bag, tie your shoes and get ready as the Dummies swing through treetops and skip past foliage, with a rockin’ soundtrack, unbelievable acrobatics and trademark Dummies frivolity, let’s get ready to rumble!
Rub-a-dub-dub, the Dummies are here with some splish splashing circus set to drown you in tears of laughter. With a brilliant array of catch-your-breath stunt work, dazzling acrobatics, dexterous juggling and side-splitting, slapstick comedy, the Dummies are ready to roll out their beach towels and spring into an exciting hour of circus-filled hilarity for the whole family.
DANIEL OLDAKER
SUNDAYDANDYMAN‘DANDYMAN’ FAMILY SHOW
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Back by popular demand, circus veterans Debra Iris Batton and Sue Broadway tread the boards with a new line up of fellow quinquagenarians (folks over fifty that is) in The Classics. Daring, hilarious, playful, and like good wine, The Classics prove that vintage is better. Together with their special guests, Batton & Broadway will charm you with their wit, fearless presence, circus classics and new acts of age rejoicing in brilliance!
JOEL SALOM & MALIA WALSH BRUNSWICK HEADS OR TAILS
BATTON & BROADWAY PRESENT
Daniel Oldaker is ‘Dandyman’- Australia’s prince of circus and physical comedy. A true clown and improvisational, ingenious idiot who’s been instrumental in providing platforms for many artists over the years in Australia’s variety scene. Catch Dandyman creating absurd madness at the festival when he serves up something entirely fresh and just a little bit more chaotic.
An all new, all star, kids against grown-ups circus game show. Smarts, sass or agility could win you amazing prizes. Stars Joel Salom (The International Man of Circus, Circus OZ) and circus royalty Malia Walsh (Werk it, Circus Trick Tease) deliver an action packed, cheeky spin on those classic game shows.
THE SATURDAYCLASSICS
EAST INDIA JAARDUMAGICTHE MAGIC OF INDIA SATURDAY & SUNDAY FAMILY SHOW
The Space Cowboy is a multidisciplinary artist from Byron Bay. A natural performer, he started presenting his unusual skills at the local markets at the age of eight and went on to shock and amaze audiences in more than 40 countries around the world. His numerous television appearances include Officially Amazing, Outrageous Acts of Science and Australia’s Got Talent, which have solidified his fame as a sideshow celebrity. One of the most innovative sword swallowers alive today, The Space Cowboy performs an ever-expanding list of daring sideshow stunts and currently holds 55 Guinness World Records - the most ever held by an Australian! As he follows in the footsteps of legends such as Houdini, his death-defying displays are history in the making. COWBOY
Andrew Elliott has created the character of Jaardu from both his Eastern and Western heritage. He is, by turns, cheeky and provocative, irreverent and flirtatious. Straddling both worlds, Andrew is able to gently poke fun of Eastern and Western stereotypes, provoking humour and goodwill. Catch this unique performance which encompasses magic, comedy and a very original snake charming routine. An energetic show of intrigue, suspense, mystique and humour.
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SATURDAY
THE SPACE
In a world where it is common to believe in both spirituality and science, how can we navigate the complex dialogues that consume contemporary culture? Common Dissonance is a contemporary circus work exploring the struggle between traditional and modern modes of reasoning. Featuring two contemporary performers with shared and distinctly individual experiences, this work not only explores the harmony and conflict of contemporary Australian reasoning, but finds a Common Dissonance.
HANNAH CRYLE THE BIG WHEEL SHOW SUNDAY
SATURDAY & SUNDAY NA DJINANG
CORIE PLANETHURRYLAVA
CABARET Planet Lava is comedy circus for kids where the floor is made of lava and a handstand on a bunch of chairs is the only way to get in touch with headquarters. The show is intended to help kids feel smart and important while having fun. Watch as a very silly space explorer climbs out of a rocket that is way too small for an 80kg astronaut.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
COMMONCIRCUSDISSONANCE
The show with a big personality, Hannah has brought her friend Herman the massive German Wheel to the street. A show of circles, you’ll see Hannah contorting herself through rings, spinning and rolling through the wheel and engaging audiences with her affable personality and lighthearted banter. A show that seriously runs rings around the competition, your head will spin while your hands turn rounds of applause.
SATURDAY HUNTLY FAMILY SHOW
Beginning in 2005 with the addition of a newborn baby to Cessil and Sandy Pitts, The Pitts Family Circus is a quirky acrobatic comedy street theatre show. The Pitts have evolved over time to include three children, two dogs, two circus tents, various family and friends, a caravan and a truck. They have travelled the world many times over, performing and teaching, and presenting a wide variety of acrobatic circus acts including risley, bottle walking, kendama and knot throwing.
SEESAW CIRCUS THE FRIDAYOUTHOUSE&SATURDAY
DR HUBBLE’S BUBBLES
& SUNDAY SHEP
FAMILY SHOW
14 Meet Luna and Hope. Two clowns on a quest to give our planet the rest and rejuvenation it needs, leave Earth in their outhouse rocket. The Outhouse will take you on an interactive journey into the ridiculous and sublime. This two-woman physical comedy combines shadow puppetry and animation, creating an experience that will touch your heart and make your spirits soar.
THE PITTS FAMILY CIRCUS SATURDAY Dr Hubble, Australia’s favourite Bubbleman, is the world-renowned circus and sideshow artist, Shep Huntly. All his life Shep knew he wanted to be on stage. He did his first performances in primary school, was in all the school plays throughout secondary school and studied acting at university. Dr Hubble’s Bubbles combine 25 years of international show biz experience and a newfound love of bubbles together to create a wonderful show for all ages.
Mullumbimby! Are you ready to speak dance? Fans of Spinal Tap and Flight of the Conchords, say “Hallo!” to your new favourite band. Dysfunctional siblings, Otto & Astrid, from the cult band
FAMILY SHOW
OTTO & PLAYASTRIDTHE
The Nickels are always on time. For Max and Daisy, showtime, the timing of a trick, the timing of lunch and the time of your life, are all part of their family tradition. Join them for their handed down hands acrobatic comedy set off the back of the family trailer. An outdoor duo comedy show involving acrobatics, acro-balance, juggling, hula hoops and hand balancing.
BAH HA CIRCUS THE NICKELS
GREATEST ROCK’N’ROLL CONCERT YOU’VE EVER SEEN FRIDAY
Die Roten Punkte are coming to thunder through a showcase of their hits. And misses. The brother and sister electro-pop/ punk rockers are the self-proclaimed “Best Band in the World”. An Otto and Astrid gig is a wild, rock‘n’roll cabaret ride, full of hilarious, truly catchy and award-winning pop songs, constantly interrupted by absurd squabbling. Otto & Astrid will be one of the most irreverent and hilarious gigs you are ever likely to see.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
A short unhappy life as a rodeo clown. Life is like a rodeo; the trick is to ride and make it to the bell. You can get bucked and go to hell! A short, new work in progress by Nicci Wilks, Susie Dee and the creators of Caravan. Scruffy Knight
Once upon a time... there was a very successful cabaret called 137, which was performed by the UK’s oldest existing performance group - The People Show. They all had hoped to have it as their pension but alas EMIL is now the only one left alive performing it- alone, forlorn and broke - until his agent HARRY phoned with news of unimaginable hope. A true story… almost.
Rodeo Clown
16 TAKE A WOLK ON THE WILKS SIDE. TWO SHOWS. TWO IDIOTS. TWO LAUGHS.
This young troupe has come together from a range of different backgrounds, with one common goal - a love of circus and performing. Watch as these young performers go on a journey of self-discovery, overcoming fears and finding Independence. An abundance of circus acts, like acrobatics, aerials, and trampolining promise unforgettable entertainment.
CIRCUS ARTS
A WOLK & WILKS DOUBLE BILL WILKS & WOLK PRESENT SATURDAY & SUNDAY
SUNDAYPERFORMANCEYOUTHTROUPEFAMILYSHOW
SATURDAYTUMBIAN&SUNDAY
SPAGHETTISERIOUSLYCIRCUS
Director Scott McBurnie Master Trainer Petrina Hutchinson
DETAILED NOSTALGIA ELLEN & JAMES BARTLETT SPAGHETTI & DETAILED NOTALGIA DOUBLESATURDAY BILL
After spending their childhood years training at Spaghetti Circus, the Performance Troupe members have quite a few tricks up their sleeves. The older half of the troupe proudly present this new work, created especially for the National Circus Festival, focusing on the things they like best. Seriously.
Tumbian is emerging contemporary circus trio Anais Stewart, Nell Lovatt and Rosa Mordaunt. Part of the 2020 graduate troupe of Spaghetti Circus, they have over ten years of experience training together. Tumbian have created a short work for the festival which incorporates acrobatics, handstand chairs, tumbling, aerials and contemporary movement, using everyday themes to inspire. Catch them in this year’s festival program.
Ellen and James grew up in the mud of Mullumbimby playgrounds and the black mirror of Saturday morning cartoons. As they leave the world of adolescence, they’ve decided to explore the ways in which they revere, homage, mimic and build upon their foundational influences. Stories, images and ideas that got seared into their impressionable young brains, spew out of them onto the stage in a haphazard, absurd and emotional manner.
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THE BOY OF MANY COLOURS
JEX LOPEZ
PROGRAM Queer Mestiça pianist singer Jex Lopez is influenced by Latin rhythms layered with delays and vaudevillian piano finished off by compelling operatic tones. From fairy tales to Latin divas to circus arts, Lopez draws inspiration from all over the world and shares art in all its forms. A blend of intelligent lyrics, story telling, progressive social themes and bold rhythms is as mesmerizing as it is brutally honest. An artist like no other; the theatrical, satirical, lyrical and unique delivery of these powerful songs is not to be missed.
FRIDAY Coedie Ochre Warrah was born on Bundjalung country, a Yidinji / Bar-Barrum man from far North Queensland, brought up in Byron Bay or Cavanabah “meeting place”. With music an integral part of his way of life, he harnesses the ancient art of story-telling. Fusing the old ways with the new he combines the sounds of the distant past and the modern age. He is a multi-disciplinary artist, producing, writing and editing all his work. Backed by the distinguished Hydrofunk Records, he is a talent not to be slept on.
MUSIC18
SUNDAY Loose Content are an Indie Rock trio born and bred in the Byron Shire. The band, consisting of MiLLa, Sam Sanders and Aquila Porter, formed in 2018, releasing their first EP, ‘A Poem for Alix’ in February 2021. After winning the MMFl Youth Mentorship program in 2018, the group have gone on to play at internationally recognised local festivals as well as shows at some of the area’s most iconic venues: The Beach Hotel, Brunswick Picture House, Howl and Moan Records & The Rails.
LOOSE CONTENT SATURDAY
JAMIE MACDOWELL & TOM THUM Bunny Racket is here to rock you. Whether you are 3 years old or 103, you will not be able to resist the beautiful madness of King Bunny and his gang of fluffy punk rock friends. The Bunny Racket sound is heavily influenced by the likes of The Ramones, KISS, Black Sabbath and The Muppets among others. With a line-up featuring members of The Vines, Goons Of Doom and Wolfmother, Bunny Racket serves up real rock’n’roll for everybody. So get loose, get nostalgic and get into it… because it truly is on for young and old.
SATURDAYFRIDAY
THE BARKERS VALE BROTHERS
FRIDAY
BUNNY RACKET
19 COLLABORATIONINWITH
One is good with his fingers, the other is good with his mouth. Beatbox sensation, Tom Thum –best known for the most watched TEDx talk of all time: Beatbox Brilliance, joins forces with bohemian singer-songwriter Jamie MacDowell to create original, genre-defying music that is ‘redefining musical parameters’ (Nouse). Armed only with a guitar and a versatile voicebox able to convey any instrument, this duo eschew cynicism, exude joy and defy expectations. A funny, riotous combination of folk-pop songs and virtuosic beat-boxing that has seen the Australian duo garner a global following.
Grant Arthur and Gareth Bjaaland are banjo addicts with little to no hope of rehabilitation. They dream 5-string dreams each night and wake up each morning wearing only their PJs and finger picks. Grant & Gazza are very accomplished musicians who have spent much time on the road with various Australian circus productions all the while dreaming of being back on their porches with their banjos. They will finally be united at the National Circus Festival for the very first time. Don’t worry, it’s not all banjo with this rowdy group; percussion, brass, fiddles will be in hand (but the banjos with never be too far away).
The Barkers Vale Brothers are two brothers from the mountains of Barkers Vale in Northern NSW. They play bluegrass, roots and swing music, original and traditional. They like animals, trains, cheese and crackers, beer, caravans and buses. Expect a 5-string banjo, guitar, fiddle, Jew’s harp, banter and harmony singing!
GRANT ARTHUR & GARETH BJAALAND
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
The raucous applause of festival-goers being blown away by impossible, daring feats. Share in the sheer delight and childish squeals of families enjoying physical theatre, street art and interactive play spaces.
Internationally-acclaimed acts by Australia’s leading artists at one of our two big tops, The Famous Spiegeltent, aerial rigs, studios or under the fig trees. Wander through a 25-metre inflatable globe, meet roving performers en route to our family play space or lounge at the outdoor cinema.
NATIONAL20 CIRCUS FESTIVAL IS EVERYONE.OFCELEBRATIONACIRCUSFORSEEHEAR
BREATHE Pristine air in paradise at the base of Mount Chincogan in the Byron hinterland. Truly one of the nature’s spectacles, Mullumbimby is a stunning place to host this magic event.
STAY For a day, the weekend or camp for the whole festival, you’ll find plenty to please the senses. And if it all gets too much, unplug, reconnect and wet your whistle at our festival cafe.
TASTE Delicious meals as our food stalls take your tongue for a culinary adventure across the globe. Then take a stroll down Sweet Street for fairy floss, ice cream, donuts, popcorn and other saccharine delights.
The fear, excitement and anticipation as artists undertake death-defying stunts, swing from the trapeze at great heights, juggle danger and perform awe-inspiring acrobatics.
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SEE YOU THERE!
FEEL
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
FESTIVAL MULLUMBIMBYNATIONALCIRCUSFESTIVAL.COMMAPSHOWGROUND Map illustration by Mike Finch.
FESTIVAL24 CABARET A taste of the outstanding skills and some of the artists you will experience over the festival weekend. Grab a drink and gather your friends, the party is about to begin. HOSTED BY DALE WOODBRIDGE-BROWN OPENING NIGHT DELIGHTS A cabaret full of sweet treats and circus feats. An absolute must for the full family. HOSTED BY HANNAH CRYAL CABARET CABARET SATURDAY From hard core Hula Hoops, Erik the Dog and aerial acts like no other, this line-up is for adults’ eyes only, 18+. HOSTED BY FOXY MORON THE STUDIO CABARETFRIDAYFRIDAY
HOSTED BY MARIANNA JOSLIN UNDER THE BIG TOP
SATURDAY
SATURDAY
It’s almost time to say goodbye so let’s go out with a bang. Witness some of the festival highlights with your unpredictable and witty host Dale Woodbridge-Brown.
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SATURDAY
Finish your festival day with some belly laughs, dazzling skills and the great atmosphere of the circus big top. This is a great family event and a line up which will only appear once at the festival.
HOSTED BY DANDYMAN THE BIG AFTERNOON SHOW Join us under the big top for some of the best kids’ comedy in the circus business. The laughs are hosted by none other than Otto & Astrid - Berlin’s Prince and Princess of art rock and Europop and the two halves of Die Roten Punkte. HOSTED BY OTTO & ASTRID
Some late afternoon fun with a touch of cheeky humour to get you ready for your festival evening.
THE KID’S COMEDY GALA
HOSTED BY DALE WOODBRIDE-BROWN WRAP UP THE FEST CABARET SUNDAY
Joel Salom presents Erik the Dog, a metallic marvel that rips around the stage and often rips into his audiences. Erik is the only robot dog in the world to get through to the Grand Final of Australia’s Got Talent, get the Golden Buzzer and urinate on the judges. He’s obsessed with stunts and will do almost anything for an applause. He’s performed in New York with Circus Oz, London with La Soiree and all over Australia. He’s done heaps of gigs and loves his audience, almost as much as he loves himself.
‘Splish Splash’ is a joyful, bath-time juggling act performed by Hana Fiesta. Suitable for all the family and anyone who loves a bubble bath with their rubber duckies!
ARTISTS
CABARET26
CIARA
HANA FIESTA Ciara is a passionate, progressive and creative artist based in Melbourne, who has combined her passion for conceptual art with entertainment in a unique fusion of variety skill and clowning. Bubblegum Babe literally bursts her way onstage with her risky and risqué variety act. Brace yourself for bewildering Bubblegum tricks that must be seen to be believed. “BUBBLEGUMTHORBURNBABE”
JOEL SALOM & ERIK THE DOG
JESSIE CARSON
ANNA FISHER
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From as early as she can remember, Hannah has always preferred being upside down. She is Spaghetti Circus alumni and a 2019 graduate of The National Institute of Circus Arts. Hannah has performed with companies that include A Good Catch; Radish by Night and now Yuck Circus. Her fun, energetic skipping act will bring you back to playing jump rope as a kid, leaving you in awe of the flashy tricks you didn’t think were possible.
HANNAH RICHARDS
Chris Carlos Trio, Flip Kammerer, Joe Fisher, Rako, Misha Reale, Nicola Hall, Rebecca Kordas, Rhiannon Errser, Suzi Langford, Louise ClarkePandora Boxes, Nigel Martin - Mr. Spin, Sandy Pitt. See nationalcircusfestival.com for more artists.
PLUS SO MANY MORE...
Fusing unique balancing skills with fast paced technical hooping to create a punchy, sassy, and contemporary style that pushes the boundaries of hula hoops as an art form.
With almost 20 years’ experience, Anna Fisher is one of Australia’s leading hula-hoopers.
Jessie is a circus performer and teacher based in the Northern Rivers. Jessie has performed in big top circuses, small ensemble shows, fringe shows and events across New Zealand and Australia. Jessie has completed extensive training in New Zealand and Australia, and in 2019, Jessie graduated from the National Institute of Circus Arts. Through performance and teaching, Jessie hopes to inspire others to follow their passions.
SATURDAY SATURDAY
December marks our history and honours those affected by 2020’s Black Summer. Combining visual art and circus on a powerful scale, December presents a fictional future that is fast becoming our realistic present. Exploring themes of loss and isolation, and the consequences of Australia’s bushfires, Silvestro creates hope amid a scene of ash and rubble. Speaking to the resilience of a country hit hard during the ongoing climate crisis, this enthralling new work prompts reflection on our actions to prevent our past from defining our future. A captivating solo physical theatre performance created by Australian multidisciplinary artist Jake Silvestro and directed by Adam Deusien. SILVESTRO & DIRECTED BY ADAM DEUSIEN DECEMBER
JAKE
From conception to birth, bliss to mayhem, elation and grief, The Birth Suite explores the multifaceted experience of becoming a mother. Join Britt and Sarah as they share stories of birth and early parenthood through the intersection of poetry and movement. You are invited to share in the development of this new body of work, which seeks to open the conversation on a rich, complex and often unacknowledged human experience.
TALKS28 & THOUGHTS
BRITT PORTELLI & SARAH TEMPORAL THE BIRTH SUITE
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Originally devised in 2018 in response to the ‘Me Too’ movement. The work explores the ways in which a diverse group of WOW women have struggled, adapted and thrived in a society in which sexual harassment and abuse are prevalent.
WOWTHE
STATERA STATERACIRCUS
Statera are one of our Artist in Residency companies – this work will be presented as a work in development as part of the Training Program.
FRIDAY
SILENCE WE CARRY & THE ANGER I HOLD This daring and hilarious show, featuring acrobatic employees, burgers and our unique prop Perspex, is not one you’re soon to forget! Statera, the debut show of Statera Circus, explores the monotony of the 9 - 5 through our comedic characters and their plight to get out of work. The strong narrative using styles from physical theatre and clown, will have you laughing out loud. Come and immerse yourself in their world.
WORLD REPAIR DISRUPTION INCOMING!
CINEMA PROGRAMMED BY THE SPAGHETTI CIRCUS YOUTH AMBASSADORS WORLD REPAIR WORLD REPAIR WORLD REPAIR WORLD REPAIR
OUTDOOR
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Acrobat diligently toured their avant-garde circus performances internationally for over 20 years. An uncompromising ethos and idiosyncratic aesthetic generated a cult following but failed to prompt the necessary insurgency needed to topple free market Nowcapitalism.oldand cantankerous, they have turned their backs on their physical discipline and are threatening to trigger a punk / clown / beekeeper uprising. Superficially, it’s funny because they think they can make a difference, but substantially, it’s tragic because they think they can make a difference. Grab your popcorn, fairy floss and ice cream from the Festival’s Sweet Street and come on down to the Outdoor Cinema for all your favourite movie classics. Kick back on a deck chair or BYO picnic blanket and relax in our Outdoor Cinema. Soak up kid, family and teenage friendly movies every evening in this perfect setting with Mt Chincogan as the backdrop and the stars shining on screen and IRL.
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No matter if you’re small, or big, or fast, or precise, or brave, or ready or not... get involved; these Olympics are for EVERYONE!
CIRCUS OLYMPICS
A Circus Festival Tradition for EVERY BODY!
Be amazed by highly skilled tricks and an exciting collaboration between two of Australia’s top flying trapeze companies, Circus Arts (Byron Bay) and The Fly Factory (Melbourne). Interactive, captivating, full of high-flying feats of daring and all-round entertainment. A FLYING TRAPEZE SHOW
A sunset circus performance made just for the festival and just for you.
INFREQUENT FLYERS
No circus festival is complete without a Circus Olympics, and this one has a distinctive Spaghetti flavour. A sports field like no other, where inter-generational collaboration takes poll position; where idiocy and skill are of equal standing; where you’re likely to see just as much brains and brawn, and sometimes neither. An arena where mixed ages and mixed abilities go for gold and where the line between spectator and competitor is blurred. There’ll be classic events like Longest Handstand, Juggle Combat and Hula Wars and introducing to this years’ Games, The Great Plate Of Spaghetti Run and the Team Circus Obstacle Course. And as for the commentators… well, move over Benaud, you’ve well and truly met your match!
Participants will have the opportunity to learn to ride a bike called a Python Lowracer. A centre-steering hands-free recumbent bicycle Only 10 places available. The bike is as difficult to learn as slack rope or unicycle. vehicle is unique and legs for steering and drive. it own or with a friend. brain and body.
or tricycle.
uses the
out on your
The
Challenge your
HAVE A WORKSHOPSLAUGH!ONTHEGREEN Circus for Everyone Seesaw Circus | 45 mins | 7-10 yrs Python Bike Jeff Turpin | 60 mins | All ages Come along and participate in these exciting circus workshops. Workshops include games, hula hoop, plate spinning, juggling and clown activities - for those that want to have a go in a fun and inclusive environment. Come along, learn some skills and have a laugh! ️ Circus Play Melinda Swann | 45 mins | 5-8 yrs A Taste of Circus Statera Circus | 45 mins | 8-16 yrs Circus Play Jessie Carson | 45 mins | 0-5 yrs SPAGHETTI SHED WORKSHOPS Laughter Workshop Leeroy Hart | 60 mins | All ages
WORKSHOPS32 What’s a Python Bike?
Have fun working
Join Michele Thomas and Sue Hird for life drawing sessions in the The Famous Spiegeltent. Circus performers will be posing as models. You can do your own thing or Michele is available to give guidance. Michele studied Fine Arts at Meadowbank TAFE and Sue is a passionate life-drawing participant. Beginners welcome. Materials supplied.
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Come join Rako artists in a Rako artistsresourcecanworkshop.weavingParticipantspurchaseaweavingkitandjointheonthemat.
RAKO RHYTHMS
Simi is a circus performer and emerging author with a special interest in women’s issues. Since becoming a parent, Simi has recognised a shortage of picture books about interesting, inspirational Australian women and girls. Simi wanted to write stories that educate and inspire. So she did.
Come join Rako artists and musicians to experience the rhythms and beats of indigenous Oceanic performers from all around Oceania. This is a workshop for all ages aimed at bringing people together through dance and music.
SALON DE SKETCHY LIFE DRAWING
BOOK READING WITH SIMI GENZIUK
RAKO WEAVES
Your chance at a one-of-a-kind Flying Trapeze Workshop is a 1.5-hour session on a full-sized Flying Trapeze where participants learn and practise manoeuvres with the goal of being caught mid-air by the catcher. All skill levels are catered for from first-time flyers through to professionals and all ages from five years old and up are welcomed. Participants are coached by experienced instructors from Circus Arts Australia and Fly Factory who are teaming up on this special occasion to offer an amazing Flying Trapeze experience! Class numbers are limited, so make sure you book your spot in advance and get ready to experience the unforgettable thrill of the flying trapeze!
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Please note: Admission prices are charged for flying trapeze workshops. What to bring: Water bottle, wear comfortable close-fitting clothing, with pants or leggings that cover the knees.
FLYING TRAPEZE WORKSHOPS
more than 80 young people through our scholarship programs. Our alumni are now represented in major circus companies nationally and internationally. Their careers have been supported by the creativity and confidence fostered by the Spaghetti Circus ethos. For more information, see: spaghetticircus.com
Over a period of three decades, Spaghetti Circus has created many original performances and toured widely. Spaghetti’s history is rich with highlights including a tour to Europe, performances at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, Sydney Festival and the Sydney Opera House. Spaghetti’s greatest achievement though is our continuing development of creative kids and strong Spaghetticommunities.Circussupports
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The little circus that could... Spaghetti Circus is a leading regional youth circus and centre for the broader community to participate in inclusive circus arts programs that encourage creativity, strength andconfidence. We also produce the National Circus Festival!
CREATIVE KIDS STRONG SPAGHETTICOMMUNITIESCIRCUS
EXPERIENCE THE Photographs from previous circus festivals. Share your photos: @nationalcircusfestival
Our food stalls and vendors manage waste to reduce landfill and recycle wherever possible. Please use the correct bins on-site. Drink bottles and keep cups are available to purchase from the merch stall.
Support Us Your support goes a long way. Help us to keep flying high and delivering world class events like the National Circus Festival into the future.
Spaghetti Circus’ 2022 Scholarships program is dedicated to supporting local families that are flood-affected and from Indigenous backgrounds. Any donation greater than $2 is tax Fordeductiblemoreinformation see: givenow.com.au/spaghettieveryday
Program changes Program schedules, acts and artists are all subject to change. While all efforts have been made to ensure the information contained in this program is accurate at the time of printing, we acknowledge and apologise in advance for any inconsistencies that may arise. For up to date information, see: nationalcircusfestival.com
The National Circus Festival & Training Program will take place on Bundjalung country at the Mullumbimby Showground, Byron Shire on the NSW North Coast.
We continually aim to improve our festival to accommodate patrons of all abilities. We are happy to assist you to plan an enjoyable and safe experience. For more information see: nationalcircusfestival.com/accessibility
Waste Management
Gate Times Friday, 30 September: Saturday, 1 October: Sunday, 2 October: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm 9.30 am – 10:00 pm 9.30 am – 9:00 pm
KEY INFORMATION
COVID Safety National Circus Festival values a healthy community. We operate with a COVID-19 Safety Plan, which will be updated as restrictions change. Practice good hand hygiene, stay home if unwell and where possible maintain physical distance and consider wearing a mask. For more information see: Accessibilitynationalcircusfestival.com/covid
• NCF is a licensed event. BYO alcohol is strictly forbidden. COVID-19 Conditions of Entry
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Limited Capacity
Ticketing Terms • Child age is 2-17 years old.
FRIDAY OPENING NIGHT • Child: $25 • Adult: $50 • Family: $150 SATURDAY ALL-DAY • Child: $25 • Adult: $70 • Family: $180 SUNDAY ALL-DAY • Child: $25 • Adult: $70 • Family: $180 WEEKEND PASS - SAT & SUN • Child: $50 • Adult: $130 • Family: $300 3-DAY PASS - FRI, SAT & SUN • Child: $70 • Adult: $180 • Family: $450 3-DAY PASS WITH CAMPING • Child: $110 • Adult: $220 • Family: $550
• A family ticket comprises: 2x Adult and 2x Child tikets.
• Has flu-like symptoms or is unwell in any way.
TICKETS
It’s inevitable that some shows will be more popular than others, so please get to your ‘must-see’ shows early to avoid disappointment. Venues do fill up. If a venue is full - don’t stress - there is always another great act on a stage nearby. The two Big Tops and Ives Stage have large capacities while The Famous Spiegeltent and The Studio have limited capacities and there is no admittance once a show has commenced.
Arrival Times - Camping
Full Experience 3-day camping pass holders may arrive at Mullumbimby Showground between 2pm and 9pm on Friday, 30 September 2022. Campers will need to depart the site by 12pm (noon) on Monday, 3 October 2022.
Event access is restricted, limiting anyone who:
• All tickets are subject to availability and booking fees. • Tickets will be exchanged on entry for a wristband that is non-transferable.
• Is subject to a period of self-quarantine or self-isolation. To enter the event, attendees must use the Covid Safe measures that are current at the time of the festival.
Life Member Leonie Mills OAM Team Festival Director & General Manager Alice Cadwell Festival Program Director Chelsea McGuffin Training Program Director & Head of Circus Petrina Hutchinson Communications Manager Obi McDonald-Saint Head of Production & Site Sienna Dillon Licensee Sienna Dillon Partnerships & Development Manager Marisa Snow Technical Manager Rich Morrod Heads of Rigging Pete & Chad Albinger Assistant Rigger Scott McBurnie Volunteer Coordinator Hana Flanagan Site Manager Casey Douglas Finance Manager Deryn Evans Assistant Director Shoshannah Orenstein Artist Registration Marianna Joslin Publicist Leigh McGrane Photography Hamish & John McCormick Documentation Carnival Cinema Creative Agency Headjam Illustrator Brolga & Jacky Winter Sound Production Manager Rhys Edwards Festival Stylist Zoe Wild AND an army of volunteers, crew and staff. Full credits at nationalcircusfestival.com
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Photography Credit Images used in this program and on the festival website are the works of: Darcy Grant, Françoise Schneiders, Willow Darling, John McCormick, Carnival Cinema - Hamish McCormick, Julian Orbach, Jeff Dawson, Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore, Mark Turner, Chris Herzfeld, Ian Sutherland, Sarah Fiedler, Christine Fiedler, Mihaela Bodlovic as well as individual artists and companies. Board Chair Joel Salom Vice Chair Mark Swivel Secretary Terri Graham Treasurer Kate Leggett Members Hamish McCormick, Peter Castaldi
OUR TEAM Printed program designed by Obi McDonald-Saint, inspired by Headjam.
We are very excited to present The Famous Spiegeltent as the 2022 National Circus Festival. For those in the know, this is a big deal. For those that don’t, be sure to see it for yourself and enjoy the full spectacle. We also have two big tops: the Spaghetti Circus Big Top and the Circus Oz Big Top, as well as Aerial Rigs. There’s plenty of action and shows from Australia’s leading artists to be seen at the Ives Stage, the Spaghetti Shed and Studio. To top it off, we have an Outdoor Cinema for the kids to enjoy a movie or two while the adults have some fun. Did we mention Sweet Street? Take a stroll and enjoy saccharine delights such as fairy floss, ice cream, donuts and popcorn.
VENUES
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42 Abby Bliss, Adelaide and Lachan Campbell, Andrew Skoczen, Anna Coelho, Anthony Mallam, Bay FM, Belinda Hultgren, Ben Kelso, Bethwynn ‘Harry’ Hackett, Bev Parker, Brett Haylock, Brittannie Portelli, Brunswick Valley Pony Club, Byron Shire Council, Byron Writers Festival, Caterina Barry, Catherine Frederick, Chris Chen, Circus Arts, Clare McGregor, Danny Trimarchi, David Bates, David Brown, Deb Wilks, Debra Batton, Delta Kay, Glenn Wright, Hettie, Hon. Benjamin Franklin, MLC Minister for Tourism, Aboriginal Affairs, Arts, Regional Youth., Hon. Justine Elliot MP, Jane Fuller, Jeff Dawson, Jesse Scott, Joanne McMurtry, Josh Bond, Keith & Margaret, Kiera Mills, Kerry Valensteen, Laurent Le Pochat, Leonie Mills OAM, Linda Mickleborough, Lorne Rawlings, Mandy Nolan, Mark Norris and Associates, Mark Ward, Mathew Kehoe, Matt Morris, Mike Finch, Mullum Print Works, Mullumbimby Agricultural Show Society, Mullumbimby Engineering, Mullumbimby Hire, Mullumbimby Pony club, Mullumbimby Showground Land Manager Board, Naomi McCoy, Nino Haggith, Noel Condon, North Byron Farmers Market, Northern Rivers Conservatorium, Paul Goodwin, Peter Robbins, Peter Wood, Randall De Bock, Shien Chee, Simone Evans, Simone O’Brien, Spaghetti Circus Youth Ambassadors, Spendour in the Grass, Students, Families, our elders and community, Sue Hird, Susan Marsh, Swell Building, Syd Geary, Tamara Smith MP, Tim Coldwell, Tony Rooke, Tweed Byron Police, Valley Lipcer, Vince Devine.
For the full list, see: nationalcircusfestival.com PARTNERS
Nikki Farrell Obi
Festivals
Amazing artwork illustrations by the very talented artist Brolga. Australia
SteveSineadSiennaScottPetrinaPaulMcDonald-SaintCrebarHutchinsonMcBurnieDillonQuinnRichards
FUNDING PARTNERS MEDIA PARTNER CREATIVE PARTNER WITH THANKS
DJ MelindaMariannaJessieHanaEllenGarnerBartlettFlanaganCarsonJoslinSwann
Casey
SPAGHETTI CIRCUS COACHES
ASSISTANT COACHES & PERFORMANCE TROUPE Douglas Diana Zamudio Diaz
MalaikaLaLaimaJindiIndigoAmani JamaliaDjangoBowieAvalonAoifeAnouk
TianiSumariMyleeMikaMaxine
SariReubenNinonGraceJasmine
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SPAGHETTICIRCUS.COM YOU DON’T NEED WINGS... TO FLY