By Mikayla van Loon
Curbside Carnies is returning to the Dandenong Ranges with three brand new sessions all happening in just one weekend.
Dreams of running away with the circus, even if it is only for a couple of hours, can come true on 11 and 12 December when performers come to Chirnside Park, Yarra Glen and Selby to share their skills for free.
Event producer Sophie deLightful said this is the second time she has partnered with Yarra Ranges Council, who are funding the programs, to bring some life back to the area after so many lockdowns.
“It’s just a continuation of trying to bring the community back together and reactivate them and get them moving and happy again after the big lockdown period,” she said.
The programs are recommended for children between the ages of five and 16 to ensure they get the full experience.
With workshops on hula hooping, dancing, handstands, juggling and maybe diablos, as well as a play space, the Curbside Carnies has something for everyone.
Sophie said there is this love of the circus and intrigue about the artform that dates back through the ages.
“There’s been this romanticised image that running away with the circus means running away from your responsibilities or running away from anything that might not be going right,” she said.
“Once they actually start to play with toys and try to stand on their head and they realise that no matter what age, whether it’s kids or adults, there isn’t an age limit for the circus.
“It is something that can be enjoyed by people of all walks of life, of all ages, all experiences and backgrounds. It’s just something that’s universal.”
Curbside Carnies started a year ago to bring CovidSafe performances to various towns and suburbs across the state and in turn support performers who were without work.
“It also has benefited the community because being free, everyone has had a chance to come and check it out whether or not they’re aficionado of certain skills or whether it’s completely new to them.
“It’s been really enjoyable to bring so much positivity and happiness back into the community every time we go out there.”
Sat 11 December:
9am to 11am: Selby Community House
12.30pm to 2.30pm: Chirnside Park Community Hub
Sun 12 December:
12pm to 2pm: Yarra Glen Adventure Park
All participants must register for the events by going to http://bthe.re/curbsidecarniesartattack
