Mayo's Circus250 shortlisted for Ocean Hero Award

MAYO'S Circus250 has been shortlisted for an Ocean Hero Award for its ground-breaking sea-themed workshops and shows.

The Achill Island based company uses the fun and excitement of circus to look at the challenges facing coastal communities - from threats to marine life to plastic pollution.

Their shows include Fishy 'n’ Dishy, a shell juggling and plate spinning act where the audience discover what’s hidden in the ocean - from cigarette butts to starfish - and why we need to clean it up.

Ireland’s leading female clown Angelica Santander conducts clown-led beach clean ups, waving around her litter picker and making sure the coast is spic n span, as well as the people walking along it!

The annual Ocean Hero Award is run by Clean Coasts, a programme supported by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

Circus250 is the first performance company ever to be shortlisted.

“We are so delighted and honoured to be recognised in this way,” said says Circus250 director Dr. Dea Birkett.

“It’s important that environmental issues and the climate crisis aren’t treated so seriously they become really boring and no one can be bothered to care. Circus is a fabulous and very funny artform that can be used to do good and create change.

“It’s great to see the work of a small Achill company like ours recognised in this way.”

The awards ceremony takes place on November 27.

Meanwhile, you can see some of the shortlisted shows for free this weekend (November 15-17) on Achill Island at the Circus Science by the Sea Festival.

More details at https://circus250.com/ or text (086) 2432107.