Culture And Memory

CIRQUE-US

Supported by North East Museums, Studio Deco, and filmmaker Robert McDougal, CIRQUE US empowers young people aged 6–25 in the North East to discover, investigate, and reimagine circus heritage. Through hands-on research, creative interpretation, and public sharing, they will connect with historic archives and living traditions while creating new heritage for the future. The project resurfaces a wealth of circus heritage from the North, inspiring artists to connect with stories and reinterpret them through new creative works and collections. The project: Delivers a cultural programme for young people, bridging past traditions with contemporary practice. Produces a documentary film combining oral histories from local artists, proprietors, and creatives with historic and untold stories spanning generations. Hosts an exhibition showcasing commissioned photographic works that illuminate circus traditions in the North East, presented alongside selected archival materials. Platforms a new performance created by the youth circus company in response to the research findings.