Spaghetti Circus, Media Release, 3 November 2023
Spaghetti Circus have been on a very special tour. As part of the company’s outreach program their Junior Performance Troupe performed in five pre-schools and four aged care facilities across the Byron Shire last week to foster connection and joy across generations.
Spaghetti Circus has been running the Intergenerational Tour since 2011 and are passionate about creating opportunities for young people to interact with all members of the community, regardless of age, ability, or economic means.
“Our Intergenerational Tour takes joy into our community and uses circus as a vehicle to help people reconnect. This is particularly special for many elderly in our community facing social isolation,” said Marisa Snow, Spaghetti Circus Development and Partnerships Manager.
The tour is funded through Byron Shire Council’s Community Initiatives Program aimed at addressing specific needs and building a sense of community.
“The aim of the Community Initiatives Program is to provide seed funding for projects run by not-for-profit community organisations and groups that will create positive social, cultural, and environmental outcomes.
“Spaghetti Circus was one of 11 projects chosen, as they represent the unique, creative and community spirit that characterises our shire,” Byron Shire Council Mayor, Michael Lyon, said.
The week-long tour featured Spaghetti’s ‘Super Mighty’ troupe of 8-11 year old performers.
Toto, aged 8, from the troupe said “I really enjoyed going to the pre-schools and seeing how other kids learn to do circus balances.”
Maeve, aged 11, said “I loved going to the old people’s homes and making them happy as they don’t get to go out much.”
Patricia Brown, a resident of Coolamon Villa, watched the troupe perform and said “they were all fantastic, better than anything I’ve ever seen. When they grow up they’ll be up there in the middle of everything, becoming whatever they might want to be.”
Spaghetti Circus proves once again the power of circus to bring joy and build connections across generations.
For more information or to support Spaghetti Circus programs go to spaghetticircus.com.
