Plans under way for permanent circus in Malta

Final plans are under way for the setting up of a permanent circus in Malta, featuring clowns, acrobats, jugglers, but no animals.

"Preparations and planning have been ongoing for two years and the end result promises to be something unlike anything else in the Mediterranean, or even Europe", said Chris Dingli, founder and CEO of the new circus.

He told timesofmalta.com that this would not be a traditional circus built around a ring with a tent over it.

Instead, the circus would be promoted as an art form which would be displayed in theatres, outdoors and other venues, in Malta and abroad.

"We hope to make it more up-market. The circus is a popular art form that does not require language. It is a universal art form and it is time that we moved into this area," Mr Dingli said.

He said he did not have direct expertise in circus performance, but his background is in the performing arts and in marketing.

He was going into this project, he said, because he was seeing a gap in the market.

Assisting in the preparations is UK circus expert Verena Cornwall, who has worked with many circuses worldwide.

“We are very lucky to have Ms Cornwall assisting us. She is one of the world’s foremost authorities on circuses and her expertise in the field is helping us build a strong, exciting, modern and attractive circus that will draw attention both locally and overseas,” Mr Dingli said.

He said the producers were looking for people interested in the project.

"We would like to include athletes (including swimmers, divers and water polo players), people who work in the film industry, technicians, builders, producers, composers, and anyone who has something to offer the circus and would like to be involved.

"We are also keen to hear from performers. Circus acts, jugglers, magicians, fire eaters, actors, clowns, dancers, even stuntmen".

Ms Cornwall will be holding a public meeting on Tuesday, November, 9 at 7 p.m. i at St James Cavalier to explain the concept. Those unable to attend the meeting can still register their interest in the project by sending an email to chris@maltacircus.com.

Verena Cornwall’s visit has been made possible by the support of the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts.