Cork's Pitch’d festival set to showcase the magic of the circus
Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Cork’s beloved Pitch’d Circus and Street Arts Festival returns for its seventh edition! Running from Friday, August 23, to Sunday, September 1, the festival promises to bring the streets of Cork to life with a dazzling array of circus acts, street performances, and workshops. Organized by Cork’s Circus Factory, this year’s festival is themed ‘Future-Proof’ and is set to embrace innovation, inclusivity, and the vibrant world of contemporary circus arts. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the circus or new to the scene, Pitch’d Festival offers something magical for everyone.
Pitch’d Festival is a testament to the hard work and creativity of the team at Cork’s Circus Factory, a vital resource for circus and street arts education, training, and performance. This annual event is not just a showcase of talent but a celebration of the community and the evolving art of circus. With this year’s ‘Future-Proof’ theme, the festival aims to look forward, highlighting the innovative and modern aspects of circus arts while still celebrating its rich traditions.
One of the key commitments of Pitch’d Festival is inclusivity and community engagement. The festival provides a unique opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the magic of the circus in a modern, accessible way. From seasoned performers to curious newcomers, everyone is invited to join in the fun. The organizers have ensured that the festival is accessible to all, with detailed information available on their website, www.pitchdfestival.ie.
This year’s Pitch’d Festival features a packed schedule of events that promise to entertain and inspire audiences of all ages. Here are some highlights:
i. Wes Peden’s ‘Rollercoaster’: On Saturday, August 31, the acclaimed juggler Wes Peden will take to the stage at Dance Firkin Crane with his one-hour show, Rollercoaster. Expect an ultra-modern, pop-punk juggling performance that pushes the boundaries of circus arts.
ii. Circus Reimagined: Film Night at The Pav: On Tuesday, August 27, join a special circus-inspired film night at The Pav. This event is a collaboration with Ken Fanning of AkenEvilThing, co-founder of Tumble Circus, and IndieCork, a local grassroots film festival. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in how circus can be reimagined on the big screen.
iii. AutumnFest on Douglas Street: On Sunday, September 1, the festival will close with a day of free circus street shows at AutumnFest. From midday till 5pm, Douglas Street will come alive with performances that are sure to captivate audiences young and old.
In addition to the public performances, Pitch’d Festival also offers industry workshops designed to engage and educate aspiring performers and enthusiasts. These workshops provide a platform for learning, skill development, and networking within the circus arts community. Whether you’re a performer looking to hone your craft or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes world of circus, these workshops offer invaluable insights and hands-on experience.
The success of Pitch’d Festival is made possible by the generous support of several organizations, including The Arts Council of Ireland, Cork City Council, Tomar Trust, and the Portugal Embassy. The festival is also partnered with Cork’s 96 FM, ensuring that the magic of the circus reaches as many people as possible. This strong network of support highlights the importance of the arts in Cork and the dedication to making cultural events accessible to all.