Giffords Circus returns to Stonor Park for two magical weeks in July of 2024 with a brand new show AVALON by acclaimed Director Cal McCrystal.

The circus, described as a national treasure in the UK, is renowned for producing a show worthy of London’s West End but in the green fields of the Cotswolds, Chilterns and beyond. 

As determined as ever to delight, Giffords Circus will weave together a cast of acrobats, magicians, musicians and clowns from all over the world in a show that will combine poetry, music and performing arts all set on the mythical island of AVALON. 

“Giffords Circus is so much more than a circus” said Cal McCrystal, Director. “To come to Giffords is to immerse yourself in another world and escape everyday life for a few blissful hours. Our astonishing mix of thrills, skills, adventure, romance, theatrics and hilarity will change all your preconceptions of traditional circus. You will fall in love with our travelling world of acrobats, clowns, magicians, jugglers, vintage wagons, and entrancing music.” 

AVALON is a show that will immerse the audience in a colourful medieval world of pageantry and Arthurian legend, with lavish costumes, opulent set, and a live band all conjured up by award winning international acclaimed performance designer takis, whose innovative and diverse body of work encompasses West End and leading UK theatre. 

Giffords Circus is a magical vintage village green circus that tours England from the first days of spring to the first glimpse of winter. It’s a Cotswolds institution, founded in 2000 by Nell and Toti Gifford and to date it has been visited by over one million people. Giffords is much more than a circus, it’s a magical nod to old fashioned circus with a glamorous twist.

It’s a side-splitting show directed by comedy genius Cal McCrystal that appeals to both young and old, and with a cult following of local farmers, rock stars and A-list celebrities. Step inside the tent into a colourful madcap world of acrobats, jugglers, horses, musicians, dancers, and clowns. A production that would rival any West End show.

“The most fun you can have in a tent. Genius. Children vomiting with laughter.”

– Hugh Grant

In 2024 Circus Sauce will once again tour alongside Giffords Circus.

Circus Sauce is Giffords unique, travelling licensed restaurant which opens for dinner following the show. It has a weekly changing set menu of three-courses costing from £50 adults and £30 children. 

“One of the most memorable and enjoyable restaurants imaginable” Gastronomica 

Dinner is a rustic extravagant inspired three-course feast, served on large Emma Bridgewater serving platters and using local and seasonal ingredients by a team of talented chefs, led by Circus Sauce Head Chef Tara Moreton-Archibald. 

“And what food! They source the freshest produce available” Observer Food Monthly 

Circus Sauce is now licensed and will be selling a range of beer, cider, and wine. 

“All my children (and me) want to run off to join this circus.” 

– Sophie Ellis-Bextor