10:32am Tuesday 1st June 2010
A VISIT to Giffords Circus is more than a trip to the circus, much more.
You’ll be transported back in time to re-live the magic of circuses of yesteryear, when the wagons rolled on to the village green, bringing with them a glimpse of a glamorous world of stunning costumes, camaraderie and amazing feats, with the whiff of sawdust and melted sugar hanging in the air. And then, just like magic, they’ll be gone again. No wonder people dreamt of running away with the circus.
And after seeing Yasmine, Nell Gifford’s latest spectacular show, there’ll undoubtedly be plenty more tempted by a life beneath the big top.
Yasmine is a celebration of the life and work of the legendary horse trainer, Yasmine Smart, a name that’s inextricably linked with the world of circus. But this is a show that’s more than a series of circus acts – it’s a musical extravaganza with a score inspired by the swing music of the 1940s, and a non-stop feast of amazement.
From the moment the ‘animals’ entered the ring, the audience was entranced. From dancing pigs and penguins to imperious lions and a fabulous swan, all credit to costume designer Lindsay Pugh for some truly unforgettable creations.
In a high tech world, it is wonderful to be reminded that there are amazing things to see that don’t rely on special effects or technology – wire walker Sarah Schwarz, the rare rolling globe act of Yang Rui and He Yuan, Gabor Vosteen playing, simultaneously, five recorders, jugglers Bibi and Bichu Tesfamariam and the enchanting Freres Taquin prove, in this intimate setting, how endlessly inventive and versatile performance can be.
And, of course, there are the horses and an appearance by the subject of the show herself, Yasmine Smart presenting three stunningly beautiful Arab horses.
“In telling Yasmine’s story, we have created a musical circus about family, circus life, horses,” says Nell Gifford, “and about the enormous sacrifice of giving your entire life over to your art.”
Catch the magical Giffords Circus in the Castle grounds in Hay-on-Wye until Monday, June 7. For show times and booking details, call the box office on 0845 459 7469 or go to giffordscircus.com
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