Young Circus Stars Juggle Tradition and Climate Action Under the Big Top

When most people think of a circus, they imagine clowns, acrobats, and a big colorful tent. But this summer, there is a circus in Gloucestershire that is a little different. It is called The Great Big Climate Circus. This circus is special because it mixes traditional circus acts with important messages about climate change. Young people from all over Gloucestershire are taking part. They are learning circus skills and also creating acts that talk about the environment. The circus tent is blue and yellow, and the performers wear creative costumes. For example, one girl dresses as a boat with a flag that says 'help', and another girl flies a parrot puppet. The audience is made up of children and adults who come to watch and learn.

The Great Big Climate Circus is a four-year project. It is supported by money from the National Lottery. The circus will visit 12 different communities in Gloucestershire. The project is run by a group called World Jungle, which is based in Dursley. More than 700 young people are helping to create the circus. They are involved in everything, from making costumes and backdrops to performing on stage. The circus includes music, art, and hands-on activities. The director, Ben Ward, says the goal is to make climate change easy to understand and fun to talk about. He believes that using art and performance is a great way to get young people interested and confident about helping the planet.

Since April, the circus has been holding free workshops. These workshops help the young performers practice their acts and make decorations for the tent. The circus started its tour in Stroud in June, and will go to other places like Dursley and Gloucester. Robyn Beaudro, who is 18, says she has always cared about climate change. She is inspired by people like Greta Thunberg and David Attenborough. Robyn likes using her acrobatic skills to show why green energy is better than fossil fuels. Daisy Koos, who is 20, also enjoys combining her circus skills with a message about the environment. She says it is inspiring to share this message with other young people. The project is also supported by Creative Sustainability, a group from Stroud. They will keep helping about 120 young people to build confidence and take action for the environment. Project manager Honor Binning says the most important part of the project is listening to young people's ideas. The circus is a creative and exciting way for young people to share their thoughts and inspire others to care for the planet.