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Circus celebrates 25 years with retro American show

Clara Bullock
BBC News, Gloucestershire
Giffords Circus A white, domed circus tent is seen from above. It is topped with lit-up electric letters reading Gifford's Circus. The tent is pitched in a grassy field alongside a marquee and several wagons. There are several dozen people packed into the field, which is surrounded by dark green trees. Giffords Circus
Giffords Circus is going on tour in the Cotswolds from April

One of the UK's best-known traditional travelling circuses is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a new 1950s America-themed show.

Acrobats, magicians, musicians and clowns will be part of the Giffords Circus show, which is named Laguna Bay.

The troupe will go on tour in the Cotswolds from 17 April to 28 September, starting in Stroud.

Circus director Cal McCrystal said: "Set in the buoyant and sunny era of 1950s America, Laguna Bay is a spectacular blend of fun, excitement and charm."

Giffords Circus A white circus tent is seen behind a sign reading "Giffords". The lettering is bright blue and red on a dark background.Giffords Circus
The circus troupe includes clowns, magicians and acrobats

In 2022, Giffords Circus was invited to perform an act at the Royal Albert Hall for the Royal Variety Performance.

Since 2012, Giffords Circus has been guided by Mr McCrystal, and award-winning director, writer and performer.

His directing career spans Cirque du Soleil, the Royal Shakespeare Company, Irish National Theatre, English National Opera and Glyndebourne Opera.

Circus Sauce – a travelling restaurant – will return to accompany the Laguna Bay tour, serving a banquet-style three-course meal on selected evenings.

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