Circus members limber up for festive season

The circus performers have been training hard in recent weeks for the performance, which will feature some 500 artists.

The local performers will join over 500 dancers, musicians and circus acts from across Northern Ireland in the festive parade, which will make its way from one end of Victoria Square.

The troop will then welcome Santa Claus to mark the official start of the Christmas season.

Helen Ashton, Project Manager with the Community Circus, which holds two classes in the Island Arts Centre each week, said everyone was looking forward to the glittering spectacle.

“We teach a variety of circus skills,” explained Helen, “including juggling, tightrope, pyramids and stilt walking.

“It is aimed at young people aged 8-18 and it helps to build their confidence.”

The Lisburn Community Circus has taken part in a wide variety of events, including the Mayor’s Carnival Parade, which is held annually in Lisburn city centre.

They also recently took part in the International Festival of Fools in Belfast, where they were spotted and invited to take part in Saturday’s carnival light switch on.

“We have been brushing up on all of our skills,” continued Helen.

“It will be a lovely event and a great celebration of community arts.”

Lisburn Community Circus are also holding their own Christmas show in the Island Arts Centre on Tuesday December 8 and tickets are on sale now from the Box Office on 9250 9254.