A variety of performances, workshops and music will be on show on Clifton Street throughout the day
What’s happening?
Adamsdown’s famous circus is organising a community party on Clifton Street for residents to celebrate the area.
NoFit State, the community circus, have had meetings with local people to discuss been what they would like to see at the party and any worries they might have.
“Everyone has been really enthusiastic about the event and lots of people have come forward to offer their skills and talents to help or perform on the day,” said Jo Taylor, community manager at NoFit State.
“After the period of isolation that Covid brought, people want to gather again and we want to celebrate the lively, diverse community of Clifton St and surrounding area of Splott, Adamsdown and Tremorfa.”
The organisers
NoFit State has been doing circus performances around the UK since it was founded in 1986 by five friends from Adamsdown.
The group are trying to do more events with the local community such as free workshops and that was when the idea to have a street party was born.
“I think especially after Covid it will be good to restart the community with a celebration where people can come together and celebrate the area.
“There is a lot of pride in the area so this will be a great chance for people to showcase what they have to offer,” said Chieh-Ju Yang, who has worked at the circus for nine months.
The circus group plans to rely solely on local people in the area to organise and hold the event.
Any local performers interested in performing can contact Ms Taylor to find out more and take part.
The circus has three community champions who have been working to build connections between Adamsdown, Splott and Tremorfa in an effort to have more collaboration between local groups.
The performers
Some of the things that you might expect to see during the party will be:
- Live performance of the all-female Rwandan Drummers Group ‘Ingoma Nshya’
- Street procession of children who have been involved in community circus classes
- Puppetry
- High wire and aerial acts, juggling & stilt walkers
- Dance, parkour and circus workshops throughout the day – visit social media for more info
- Storytelling
Ms Taylor said: “We’ve held community conversation events and our Community Champions have been out and about talking to local people to gather their ideas for the day.
“NoFit State is committed to its local community and we can bring the joy of circus to the street.”
Many members of the community are volunteering their time and their skills to make the event more exciting.
Community members
The circus has been holding meetings throughout May with community members to make the street party as good as it can be.
David Knight attended one of the circus meetings and volunteered the services of a jazz group he is involved in.
“I was really surprised when I got a great response. I have always liked seeing carnivals where people of all ages get together and have the chance to have fun.
“I like the way that these people perform. I love to see it. I just thought that jazz would work nicely in that environment,” said Mr Knight.
There is community support for making the street party a yearly event.
Mr Knight said: “I can’t wait to have a lot of fun and hopefully we can contribute to it. There should be a party every year and even more than that!”
The party has also been gaining support from councillors in the area.
“It is important that Adamsdown has something to be proud of. Too often it gets talked down about,” said Councillor Owen Jones.
“Lots of people are very proud to live here. It is important to bring all these people together and give them something to shout about.”
What’s next?
The party is planned to happen over the August bank holiday weekend and there will be music and performances throughout the day.
If you are interested in getting involved or just want to find out more about the event you should get in touch with Jo Taylor.
You can email her on CommunityProjectManager@nofitstate.org or phone 02920 221330.
