Giffords Circus makes a return to Wiltshire this year with a new show.

The circus, renowned for producing shows in the Cotswolds and beyond, will be putting on the performance named Avalon, directed by Cal McCrystal.

It will appear at Bowood House & Gardens at Derry Hill, near Calne, from Friday, April 26 to Monday, May 6, and on Marlborough Common from August 22 to September 2.

Avalon director Cal McCrystal said: “Giffords Circus is so much more than a circus.

“To come to Giffords is to immerse yourself in another world and escape everyday life for a few blissful hours.

“Our astonishing mix of thrills, skills, adventure, romance, theatrics and hilarity will change all your preconceptions of traditional circus.

"You will fall in love with our travelling world of acrobats, clowns, magicians, jugglers, vintage wagons, and entrancing music.”

The show boasts a cast of acrobats, magicians, musicians and clowns from all over the world in a show that combines poetry, music and performing arts, all set on the mythical island of Avalon.

Giffords Circus also welcomes the return of actor and singer Nell O’Hara, who starred in 2023’s Les Enfants du Paradis, and magician Maximiliano Stia, who previously appeared in 2013’s Lucky 13 and 2015’s Moon Songs.

Mr McCrystal added: “Avalon is a show that will transport the audience to a colourful medieval world of pageantry and Arthurian legend, with lavish costumes, opulent set, and a live band all conjured up by award-winning internationally acclaimed performance designer takis, whose innovative and diverse body of work encompasses West End and leading UK theatre.”

This year will be Giffords Circus’s longest-ever touring season, with the circus opening at 12 UK venues from March 28 to September 29, including Stroud and Cirencester.

Giffords Circus says its box office set records last year with almost all shows selling out, and with tickets already on sale for 2024, Avalon is set to be another joyous production from the company's creative team.   

To buy tickets, click here, or call the box office on 01453 800200. Ticket prices: Child (aged 3 – 14) from £10, adult from £20.