This 19th and 20th November, the dainty and precipitous streets of Totterdown will fleetingly become home to the delightfully raucous Totterdown Arts Trail. Now in its 16th year, Bristol’s longest-running Arts Trail plans to celebrate the boundless talent of the many creative folk who inhabit this lovely quarter of Bristol by holding a circus-themed festival. Many artists have already registered, and those participating will open up their homes and studios to curious visitors who will gain a glimpse into the world of art – from drawing, photography and pottery to glass-making, textile art and sculpture – a plethora of skills, arts and crafts will be on offer.
As visitors roam the streets, so too will a Rag and Bone Circus. A mismatched group of performers and clowns specialising in the darker circus skills, they will create a unique and fiery mood. The street performances will be peppered with circus stage acts and a main stage outside The Oxford (at the corner of Oxford Street and Cheapside Street) will be home to some mesmerising performances.
Foodies have not been forgotten and we will have some of Bristol’s finest filling those hungry stomachs. Oyster fisherman Pete will be skilfully shucking Dorset oysters from the scenic heights of Higham Green – Totterdown’s highest peak. The oyster bar will be joined by a show-stopping ice bar – carved from a block of ice especially for the event – serving up a fine choice of drinks. Joining this excellent selection will be local favourite, Sausagenius, who will deliver a warming hit with a tempting array of hotdogs.
Younger Art Trail participants will be well looked after by artist Laura of www.colourfulminds.co.uk who will be running art classes galore from her base at Hillcrest Primary School – expect to see delighted children showing off shadow puppets and performing their own circus tales.
With so many houses and almost every business, venue and church opening their doors, we have made sure that participants can easily navigate with our handy map and smartphone app, which will be made available closer to the event.
As the sun sets early, expect the party atmosphere to continue as fire-eaters light the streets and the irresistible fragrance of sizzling sausages fills the chilly night air. Ultimately, this is a celebration of artists and our unique and beautiful community. We do hope that you’ll join us for the Greatest Arts Show on Earth!