Circus is a great success

2:22pm Monday 7th July 2008

Former Malvern College pupil Nancy Trotter stole the show when Giffords Circus visited Cheltenham Racecourse last week.

The whole evening from start to finish was a delight - from the Blyton-esque policemen who ushered the garrulous crowd to their seats, to the impromptu barn dance at the finale.

As an exotic ringmaster, Nancy introduced the acts and performed a couple herself - bewitching the crowd into the spirit of Caravan (the gypsy-fair theme of this season's circus).

Stints included slack rope walking from Kwabana Lindsay, aerial silk gymnastics from Denis Kovrygin and Yulia Zabotkina, and jaw dropping acrobatics from The Valeriy Aleshin Troupe.

The show also made great use of beautiful horses; and smaller animals including geese, rabbits and a trained hawk, pleased the little ones. The appearance of a 'bear' (Lance Edwards) was reminiscent of one of Crompton's Just William stories and delighted the crowd as mayhem erupted and dancing began.

Music throughout was provided by La Fanfare Suivante - a truly charismatic brass ensemble that played everything from spirited jigs to haunting ballads. Nourishment included tea from proper mugs, home-made cake, and Hungarian Goulash from a sizzling open pot.

The success of Giffords Circus is in its great attention to detail and knowledge of its audience. No effort is spared to please - the costumes, set design and programmes are all glorious.

Whether you want to nostalgically steep yourself in Olde England, or vicariously delight in chaotic fun, Giffords Circus has it all.

To book tickets call 08454597469.