If you're attending the Festival with some young 'uns in tow, then I can enthusiastically recommend you drop in on Be a Star in a Juggling Show at Zoo Venues. Californian jugglers Fred Anderson and Keith Eveslage know how to handle and audience of kids, and they have the ability to keep them focused for a full hour.
The first half of the show is a demonstration of their skills, including some very impressive tricks with the Diabolo. Fred & Keith bring out volunteers from the audience a various points, including Savannah, who impressed us with her juggling skill via the 'magic coat', and Claire, who learnt the power of audience control just using her arms. Even I was up on stage at one point.
The second half then sees everyone encouraged up, big or small, to have a go at juggling. There are silk scarves or tennis balls to choose from, the scarves being good for beginners due to their slow movement. It's all great fun, and Fred & Keith take time to ensure everyone gets included. The finale of the show gives the audience an opportunity to 'be a star' and show off what they've learnt, or just to have a ball Fred spin a ball on their fingers if they'd prefer. Great fun for kids and adults alike.
[Pete Shaw]
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