Bristol is full of creatives, from graffitists to improv performers, but Invisible Circus has consistently proved to be some of the most out-there artists the city has ever seen. Known for weird and wonderful performances and taking over disused spaces, they’ve stunned audiences with their Carny Ville productions and prolific work at Glastonbury.
Their latest show, Welcome To The Future, also looks to be their last at their Unit 15 Creation Space after a decade. It will be turned over for redevelopment, becoming the latest space previously used for culture to disappear from Bristol’s city centre. To say farewell, Invisible Circus has put together a circus theatre extravaganza, with a limited run of five shows.
Between September 28 and October 1, Welcome To The Future will fuse the best of circus and theatre with magical interactive installations. Invisible Circus will explore what society may look like in the future. With performers wowing audiences with trapeze, acrobatics, comedic interactions, and the occasional musical number – alongside some social commentary.
“We’re sad to be leaving Unit 15 but are incredibly proud of what we have achieved here,” said Wim Penhaul, Co-Director of Invisible Circus. “Over the last 10 years, we’ve built a versatile and well-equipped creation space which has supported hundreds of artists and companies to create and develop their work. The reputation of Unit 15 has spread nationally and internationally and the community of artists using the space continues to grow.“
“The show will take the audience on a journey into a future unknown,” added Doug Francisco, Creative Director and the Circus Ringmaster. “Exploring what the cultural landscape may look like as a current wave of gentrification and economic regeneration crashes on Bristol’s shore. This is a resonant story for the future of the arts and creative industry in the City of Bristol and beyond. It is not the Invisible Circus’ last act but it is the end of this chapter.”
Invisible Circus are creators of the Loco Klub, Unit 15 Creation Space, Project 345, Artspace Lifespace and The Rebel Brigade. Welcome To The Future will run from 8 pm until late every night, with plenty of opportunities to eat, drink and dance along the way. To get your tickets head here.