After 10 years of dreaming, hoping and planning, Circus Oz has moved to a fabulous new home on part of the former Collingwood TAFE site, purpose-built for Circus Oz by the Victorian Government.
Renowned for their work on heritage listed and public buildings and spaces, award-winning architects Lovell Chen have designed an inspiring creative hub for the next phase and future sustainability of Circus Oz.
Two years in construction, the new building features two rehearsal spaces that allows the Circus Oz artistic team to create and develop new shows under performance like conditions and also enables Circus Oz to expand their public and community classes, programs and activities.
Later this year, Circus Oz are scheduled to set up its spectacular 100-year old Melba Spiegeltent at the Collingwood site, which will run as a live venue space for emerging and cutting edge artists and support the development of contemporary circus, including showcasing Circus Oz’s initiatives and programs.
On Saturday 29 March 2014, run away and join the circus for a day as Circus Oz flings open its doors and host a housewarming like no other – it’s an extended invitation to Melbourne, the wider circus community and all the mob who have helped shape the company over the past 36 years.
Members of the public will have the opportunity to tour the new building in Collingwood with the rare access to observe the Circus Oz ensemble at work and the back stage machinations of the company. The open house initiative will feature free activities including some kids circus workshops, while members of the Circus Oz ensemble rehearse and develop their skills in the large rehearsal room.
Credited with revitalising a traditional artform in a uniquely Australian way, Circus Oz is a rock ‘n’ roll, animal-free circus that has influenced the development of circus arts around the world since its foundation in 1978. Circus Oz undertook its first and critically praised international tour in 1980 and has continued touring to over 100 cities and regions in 26 countries – playing to over 3.5 million people.
Circus Oz Housewarming
Circus Oz Facility, 50 Perry Street, Collingwood (between Smith Street and Wellington Street)
Event: Saturday 29 March 2014 – 11.00am to 4.00pm
Free entry
For more information, visit: www.circusoz.com for details.
Image: courtesy of Circus Oz