Giffords Circus

June 14, 2024

6th – 23rd June 2024

Wow, wow and wow! Let me take you to the Mythical land of Avalon, home of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table for that is the narrative of this piece and the setting of the Giffords Circus production which is currently playing in the grounds of Chiswick House and Gardens in West London.

The show is introduced by the charming and sassy Guinevere (Nell O’Hara), lead singer of the live band. O’Hara is the contemporary ring master, the puppeteer of her kingdom and wife to King Arthur. She narrates, announces, and smoothly drifts in and out of the action, always looking on, always present and always ready to belt out another powerful number, adding drama and emotion to the daring acts we are witnessing.

“This is indeed a very well-designed immersive experience which oozes authenticity, glamour and class. An event which will delight audiences young and old in equal measures.”

The band, clad with fitting, humorous costume pieces, provide eclectic accompaniment, effortlessly switching genres from mediaeval instrumental to contemporary rock and pop as well as contributing numerous musical sound effects with impeccable comic timing.

A circus, a variety show, a musical… this production seamlessly weaves together an unlikely blend of hugely talented artists to create an impressive, funny and engaging show.

This is a circus which has everything. Highly polished, well drilled acrobatic and aerial routines, daring balancing acts and of course comedy in abundance. We’ve become accustomed to such performers on the likes of Britain’s Got Talent but this is a different league.

The show is driven by high-octane funny man Tyler West who plays Cuthbert. A natural born entertainer who kept a full house of ‘pilgrims’ entertained throughout, always keeping us on our toes as countless individuals were dragged into the arena for harmless mocking. West, with Maximilian Stia (the magical Merlin) made for an excellent comedy double act, maximising their comic potential with physical gags and tomfoolery.

The spirit of Gifford’s shines through in all they produce. The vintage fairground style environment where friendly staff dressed impeccably in period velvet attire provide a range of enticing refreshments, traditional confectionery and circus themed gifts for aspiring young performers. The artists, in full costume, mingle freely with the audience, enhancing the warm and welcoming atmosphere which has been so cleverly created. There is even time to party at the end of the show when the hugely appreciative audience are invited to wrap up their standing ovation and join the artists in the arena for the final dance of the night. A nice touch which sent everyone away truly buzzing.

This is indeed a very well-designed immersive experience which oozes authenticity, glamour and class. An event which will delight audiences young and old in equal measures.