Gifford’s Circus best yet

I may well be Giffords Circus’ most devoted Marlborough fan. My love affair with Giffords Circus started back in 2001, their second year of operation. My children were then aged 10, 8 and 4. Ok they’re all grown up now but I’m not and they still want to come with me. I get a real sense of excitement when the maroon coloured caravans roll into town and pitch up on the Common for the end of summer two week residency (usually last week of August/First week of September). It used to be an ‘end of Summer Holiday treat’ before we returned to Dubai but now we are permanently based here, it’s as eagerly anticipated as Marlborough College Summer School and Christmas by Candlelight at St Georges church, Preshute.

What I love about Giffords Circus is that I laugh out loud and smile so much for the entire two hour duration. It is a family show and old fashioned in the sense that it is extremely good clean and funny entertainment and well worth the ticket money. I love the horses, being in awe of anyone who can vault. I love the goose. I especially love the bear and am glad he had a bigger role this year. The musicians are always good and the music lively and original.

Tweedy is undoubtedly the star – his slapstick is hilarious. I just look at him and laugh. I love his iron which he trails around by the lead – I believe it’s called Keith. I also love the very tolerant chicken. The hairy bits were scary!!

The new guy who does rope work and clowning activities is wonderful. I met him in the High Street and had a chat. Lovely man. Love the Russian acrobats and the Frenchman who walks up and down the staircase on his hands.

I really really love Bibi and Bichu the bare chested Ethiopian juggling brothers. Who wouldn’t. I also love the goat and the general feeling of bonhomie exuding from the cast.

Great story this year – who wouldn’t want a secret gypsy pipe smoking half sister as gorgeous as the very talented poster girl of Lucky 13?!

Every year I come away from the Big Top filled with a glorious glow of Giffords happiness. I look forward to seeing how they can top this show next year!

www.giffordscircus.com