The circus is coming to town at The Fitzwilliam Musuem, with plenty to keep minds young and old active over the weeks of holidays.
Events that are part of Summer at the Musuems combine with ongoing exhibitions to offer something for everyone.
A new show, StrongWomen in Science, starring two scientists turned circus performers, kicks off Family Art Week on 30 and 31 July.
Ever wondered how you balance a chair on your chin, or juggle liquid? Aoife Raleigh and Maria Corcoran (above) reveal the scientific secrets behind their astounding tricks. The 35-minute performance is followed by a hands-on workshop.
Family Art Week runs from 30 July to 2 August, with circus-themed activities and performances inspired by Jan Adam Kruseman’s portrait of celebrated Victorian adventurer and circus performer Giovanni Battista Belzoni, known as ‘The Great Belzoni’.
Gossamer Thread Circus has a mini cabaret on 1 and 2 August. Expect performances from aerialist and hula-hooper Daisy Black and contortionist Bendini, who recently appeared in Disney’s Dumbo. The show is free but booking is essential.
You also need to book via Cambridge Live Tickets for StrongWomen in Science. Tickets are £10 per child, performances are at 11am and 2pm for both shows.
Don’t miss the exhibitions while you’re there. Gallery 10 features the portrait of The Great Belzoni until early November, while the current major exhibition is Beggarstaffs, featuring the posters of two brothers-in-law from the 1890s who created some of the earliest and most spectacular graphic art. It’s on until 4 August.
Palaces in the Night, until 8 September, features James McNeil Whistler’s etchings, drypoints and lithographs of urban landscapes.
Families can borrow from reception drawing materials to sketch in the galleries, and there’s a new Fitz Explorer pack, ideal for ages for four to seven, plus Fitz Kits for ages five to 15.