National Youth Circus Event, Blackpool 2010

Following the inaugural National Youth Circus Event held at Circus Space in London in 2009, this year’s event will be hosted by Blackpool Circus School between 19 and 21 February.

NYCE 2010 will bring over fifty young participants from youth circus groups across the UK together to share their skills and experiences and participate in workshops with professional artists. The event will centre around Showzam!, Blackpool's festival of Circus, Magic and New Variety.

A result of the continuing legacy of the Young People’s Participatory Project, NYCE reflects a growing confidence in youth circus and the circus arts sector as a whole. Through continued support and investment from Arts Council England the project will continue to strengthen ties between the regional hubs of youth circus in the UK as well as encouraging the development of projects and facilities in other areas around the country. The steering committee who coordinate the project already have plans in place for the 2011 gathering in Sheffield.

‘We’re delighted to be welcoming a new generation of artists” said Yuri Gridneff, Director of the Blackpool Circus School. “People instantly associate Blackpool with circus, The Tower is the most celebrated circus venue in the country. I’m sure they will be inspired by each other and their work with professionals from the UK and beyond. The sector has been crying out for this kind of event.”

Eira Gibson, Head of Participation and Outreach at Circus Space in London commented on how the Circus Arts appeals to young people. “This is about celebrating youth circus, a thriving art form, and continuing to build relationships. It’s very exciting to see the networks developing at such pace.”