The 25th British Juggling Convention got under way today and promises to bring some unusual and enjoyable entertainment over the next few days, as hundreds of jugglers from the UK, Europe and beyond gather to share and showcase their skills.
Previous conventions have included displays not just of conventional juggling, but diablo (that's that whizzy thing on a string if you didn't know,) devil sticks, unicycling, trapeze and glass walking.
Run as a comfortable, friendly camping convention the event is open to both professionals and amateurs, and beginners are always welcome. Regular workshops are run every day on everything from juggling to falling over, and from beginner level through to the most advanced. There are Open Stage shows in the evening and Friday sees both a workshop from Cirque Normandie in the morning, followed by the British Young Juggler of the Year in the afternoon.
It's a highly sociable and varied event; non juggling partners, parents and children are welcome to come along and join in the fun, and maybe catch the juggling bug! And if they do, there are a wide range of traders offering quality props and equipment.
Plus, if your throwing, balancing or catching skills aren't up to actually attending the Convention, be sure to be around on Saturday when the Essex Samba Band will lead a parade through the town and along the seafront, culminating in traditional juggling games in the High Street. This will be followed by a Public Show at Cliffs Pavilion Theatre at 7:30; promising breathtaking performances from around the world, the cream of circus, juggling, acrobatic and balance acts will be putting on a show like no other you've seen. Enjoy a real family night out of comedy and fun; tickets can be purchased from the Convention or on the door at the Theatre and cost £15 or adults and £7 for under 11's.
For all details about the Convention, the Parade, Public Performance and much more, visit the BJC2012 website.
