Shepton Mallet is set to burst into life this July as All the World's Our Playground returns for its sixth spectacular year, bringing circus, street theatre, dance, music, and community celebration to the heart of the town.

Programmed by young people from across the region, this free, family-friendly festival transforms Shepton Mallet into a vibrant playground of creativity and joy, with the main festival day taking place on Saturday 19th July, followed by an incredible international show on Sunday 20^th July and an extended four-day fringe programme.

Expect a whirlwind of wonder with highlights including:

·        Gravity Unbound, an astonishing aerial circus performance by the Cirque du Silk Under 18 Company, complete with aerial workshops for young people.

·        The Giant Balloon Show by Dizzy O Dare – a riotous blend of clowning, 80s music and enormous balloon artistry, this international show sensation promises high energy fun!

·        Harvey the Juggler, one of Covent Garden's finest street performers, bringing his signature blend of comedy and daring circus stunts.

·        Get Lost, a whimsical dance adventure by Joe Garbett Dance featuring dancing tents, slapstick chaos, and magical maps.

·        The Sambistas, igniting the Market Place with infectious samba rhythms and joyful community workshops.

Also debuting this year is the Playground Showcase, giving local young performers a stage to shine – from spoken word to song, dance and comedy and an amazing craft zone at Create8.

The festival takes place across Shepton Mallet, with events in the town centre, the Art Bank, The Amulet and Create8. Visitors can also enjoy craft workshops, community films, and pop-up performances throughout the day, along with a nostalgic tea room and creative activities at Create8.

The celebration continues on Sunday 20th July, with a must-see performance from international hula hoop comedy duo Clap Clap Circo (BORSKA). Touring globally and now landing in Shepton's Market Place, this delightful show brings together acrobatics, slapstick, and hula hoop madness in a hilarious story of a diva and a bumbling clown with plenty of heart.

 This festival is all about celebrating the incredible creativity of our young people and bringing joy and togetherness to the heart of Shepton. With everything from aerial circus and samba to tea and craft-making, there truly is something for everyone. Make the Sunshine is passionate about everyone having access to high quality theatre and dance so all events across the programme are free of charge.

If you do want to support their work in local communities though please be sure to give them a HIGH £5 at the festival to keep their brilliant work going!

Come and play. Celebrate creativity. And see Shepton like never before.

All the World's Our Playground is proudly supported by Shepton Mallet Town Council, Take Art, Let's Buy the Amulet, Shepton Artists, Without Walls and generous local donors.

For full festival information, visit:

https://www.makethesunshine.co.uk/alltheworldsourplaygroundfestival