Circusful is Ireland’s premier circus arts organisation. Its headquarters in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter is the first and only fully equipped, purpose-built circus arts centre on the island of Ireland.
Founded in 1985 under the name Belfast Community Circus School (BCCS), our recent transformation to Circusful seeks to build on the success and important work of the past 36+ years. Over the years, our programme and reputation have grown considerably.
Our work brings the WOW factor, it is varied and exciting, professional and high quality.
Every week, across the island of Ireland and beyond, we:
teach circus skills to people of all ages and abilities
bring events and conferences to life through the work of our professional artists
we add the wonder and colour of circus to other people’s festivals, events and workshops.
Over the past two years we have listened to what our circus family have said. Together have learned more about what makes our work special and why it is important. These conversations are at the heart of our new name, vision and mission.
We’re proud of the work we have done to get us to where we are. We continue to move forward with our vision and mission at the centre of everything we do.
Vision
A 21st Century where streets, hearts and minds are filled with the wonder and colour of circus.
Mission
We support people to surprise themselves through circus. We meet them where they are, have fun and create a community together.
Our plan to 2025
At Circusful, we are clear about our goals and how to achieve them. Each goal builds on what we do brilliantly now, extends our reach and deepens our impact. Our goals are ambitious and rooted in our values. They help us check where we’re making progress and where things need to change.
Our work with and for children, young people, families and communities
Goal 1: Using circus to create a fun and supportive space where children and young people learn, experiment, lead, thrive and succeed
Goal 2: Connecting, empowering and inspiring our people and communities through high-quality circus tuition and performance
Performance, pathways, development and learning
Goal 3: Captivating, wowing and growing our client and audience base by nurturing the very best circus workshops, acts and performers
Goal 4: Showcasing the best of local and international circus at events and festivals through imaginative collaborations
Governance, operations and leadership
Goal 5: Working together to make sure everyone has a chance to lead and learn, so they grow from being involved in our circus family
Goal 6: Taking every opportunity to help individuals and the arts and culture sector as a whole to flourish, by working with our partners