Ever since my children were toddlers, Gifford’s Circus has been a major highlight of our summers in England. It’s a small, family run “homemade” circus that is cozy enough to feel intimate but big enough to create a festive dose of energy in the room. The beautiful sets are hand-painted, the inspired costumes are hand-sewn or plucked from vintage stores, and the acts are unique, impressive and thoughtfully curated. You simply can’t believe something this personal, charming and creative still exists in the world of global Ringling Brothers and Cirque du Soleil domination. It is the antithesis of the worldwide, mass produced, profit-seeking spectacle. Every year there is a different theme – past ones have included everything from Janis Joplin to War and Peace to Greek Mythology – that dictates the design of the tent, the characters, the costumes and the music. The stories are high-brow enough for adults to appreciate but subtle enough that they don’t get in the way of a 3 year old being able to equally enjoy the show. I have yet to find a better combination of entertainment and personal style.
August 20, 2012
Please say you haven't quit this blog….I love it.
I love your original photos.
That is the cutest circus I've ever seen! I too wish we had something that charming and sweet in the US!
We love Gifford's Circus and go every year, too! Though I have yet to afford to go more than once – much as I'd love to.
Thank you for sharing this…I wish something this charming and organic would happen in America…the circus looks like something out of a child's storybook!
So charming! As a kid, i always used to have a recurring fantasy of running away to join the circus. These pictures brought it all back, thanks for posting!
Wow! Now that's a circus I'd like to see. It looks so quaint and charming… I love the costumes! Thank you for sharing these photos.