Circus City supports Bristol’s bid to become the UK City of Culture in 2029 – a title that celebrates creativity, community, and the power of culture to transform lives.
Councillors have voted to submit an Expression of Interest to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), marking the beginning of a journey that could see Bristol shortlisted for one of the country’s most prestigious cultural honours. 2029 is a festival year for Circus City, and we will be working to ensure that circus is represented in plans for Bristol as a City of Culture, where circus plays such an important and celebrated part of the cultural scene.
Winning the title could bring significant opportunities for Bristol for years to come – attracting visitors, creating jobs, and strengthening the city’s cultural infrastructure. Most importantly, we are backing this bid because of its potential to ensure culture is accessible to everyone, everywhere in Bristol. National evidence shows that creative engagement is a vital pillar for a happier, healthier life, and, together with other cultural organisations in Bristol, we want to bring that sense of joy to the heart of the city.
Developing the Expression of Interest was the result of a sector-led collaboration and commitment from local culture leaders and organisations, including Circus City. Tight national timescales limited the scope for deep co-creation in this initial stage; but this is the start of a process, not a final decision.
In line with BCC Co-Production Policies and the ongoing work of Citizens for Culture, if the city is invited to submit a full bid a grant of £60,000 will be available, so any future bids will be developed in partnership with residents, community groups, businesses, and cultural organisations. We are committed to ensuring Bristol circus freelancers and organisations are part of that work.
Bristol is #ChargedbyCreativity. We are excited by the opportunity for Bristol, City of Circus, to be a City of Culture and look forward to the journey to 2029.
Top image by Anna Barclay