Festival of Fools is back again for another spectacular programme packed with the best local and international circus and street art talent.
The largest comedy and street festival on the island of Ireland takes over various locations around Belfast this May Day Bank Holiday weekend from Friday May 3 to Monday May 6.
The festival showcases a variety of fantastic homegrown artists as well as performers from countries around the world, including America, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, England, Spain, Argentina and Australia to bring a truly international flavour.
Highlights include American precision acrobats The Red Trouser Show whose astonishing display of non-stop action and skill laced with comedy and fire concludes with a breathtaking finale performed high in the air.
Italian Master Jester Ugo Sanchez Jnr promises to draw the audience into his bizarre imagination, and Spanish Cyr Wheel artist Mr Dyvinetz comes to life inside the wheel with a performance which will surprise and enchant with its display of beauty, balance and strength.
Here are 9 of the best shows coming up this week:
1. Red Trouser Show
The opening show of the festival is certainly not one to be missed. You can catch David and Tobin bringing their world famous Red Trouser Show to Writers Square on Friday 3rd May at 6:30pm. These two acrobats will take your breath away with a high intensity, action packed show performed in the air. Definitely don’t miss this amazing display of skill and talent.
2. Angelique ‘Reckless’ Ross
One show that you will want to see is ‘Spit’ by Angelique ‘Reckless’ Ross. A tight wire and trick act, this fierce one woman show will leave you spell-bound. You can only catch Angelique on the Monday at 3pm or 5pm in Writers Square, so be sure to fit it into your
schedule.
3. The Charming Jay
A popular act at the preview press launch The charming Jay will be returning to Belfast to show off his classical magic, in the style of a mime. A classic clown, Jay provides fun for all the family to enjoy and certainly lots of laughs. Jay will be performing from Saturday – Monday, so there will definitely be a chance to catch him throughout the weekend.
4. Logy on Fire
Having performed in over 15 countries around the world this Belfast boy is back with a rock and roll show that is set to impress. Specialising in skilful object manipulation and updated traditional vaudeville, with razor sharp objects you will be holding your breath at this intense and exciting.
5. Able Mabel
Able Mabel provides the perfect show for all the family to see, a dramatic and witty show girl who has stunned worldwide audiences with her impressive escapology routine. Elements of comedy and magic are all wrapped in to one in this charming show.
6. Mr Dyvinetz
One of the most accomplished Cyr Wheel artists in the world, Mr Dyvinetz brings this brand new show to Belfast. Bringing acrobatics and dance moves together this show captures the true beauty and artistry of circus performance. Expect to be fascinated as apparatus and artist become one is this beautiful performance. You can catch it throughout the weekend.
7. The Great Mefiesto
Back with new and amazing tricks to impress the audience, the Great Mefiesto combines tricks of balance and psychical dexterity to dazzle any crowd. The show takes its inspiration from turn of the century vaudeville. You can only see this act on Monday at 1pm in St Anne’s Square or 3pm in Cotton Court.
8. Fortnite
For fans of the popular video game, Suffolk bring their players in this epic Fortnite inspired show. Armed with their circus manipulation devices and funky dance moves (expect flossing and lots of it), they are up for the challenge. Who will achieve victory royale? Find out on Sunday 5th May at 12pm in Writers Square.
9. The Big Finish
If you can’t make it to some of the individual shows it’s worth calling in to the Big Finish at 6pm on the Will Chamberlain Stage each day. A round up of the greatest hits of the day, all hosted by the hilarious and eccentric Frankie Magilligan. For first timers at the festival it’s a great way to take in a variety of acts, there’s something for everyone at The Big Finish.
This year the festival is once again supported by Arts Council for Northern Ireland; Belfast City Council; Department for Communities; Destination CQ; Tesco; Tourism Northern Ireland; Third Source; Excalibur Press; Ramada Encore Hotel.
For full details on the Festival of Fools check out the programme on the website www.foolsfestival.com