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Rediscovering Glastonbury’s Enchanting Circus and Theatre Tradition Founded by Churchill’s Granddaughter

A cherished yet often overlooked tradition at the Glastonbury Festival is making a vibrant return this year. Nestled within the sprawling 900-acre Worthy Farm, the Theatre and Circus Fields promise festival-goers an immersive experience unlike any other—a whimsical “parallel universe” brought to life by some of the world’s most talented street theatre and circus performers.

As crowds roam the vast festival grounds, many will find themselves enchanted by the Theatre and Circus Fields, renowned for their eclectic mix of interactive performances and dynamic street acts known as the famed circus Walkabouts.

“This year, we are proud to present a spectacular lineup of premier street theatre acts from across the UK and beyond—performances you’ll find only at Glastonbury,” said Haggis McLeod, organizer of the area. “It’s truly like stepping into another world; some acts are mesmerizing and magical, others are humorous or delightfully absurd. You can engage with performers, snap selfies with extraordinary characters, or simply enjoy the surreal parade of creativity passing by.”

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From Wednesday midmorning until the early hours, the Walkabouts roam freely across three distinct areas: Circus Field, Bella’s Field, and Glebeland. The acts range from towering, disembodied singing diva mouths to quirky talking lampposts and cheeky, foul-mouthed babies in pushchairs, with a kaleidoscope of other surreal and hilarious performances sprinkled throughout.

This tradition, born in the 1980s through the vision of Arabella Churchill—granddaughter of Sir Winston Churchill—remains a core element of the Glastonbury Festival’s signature charm and whimsy.

Festival favorites include “The Lips,” a chorus of ethereal diva mouths animated as luminous pop puppets; “The Firefighters,” a band of slapstick comedians whose daring stunts often spiral into chaotic hilarity; and the mysterious “EEA Disco Turtle,” alongside the ever-watchful Talking Lamp Posts at Bella’s bridge. Attendees can also partake in sacred rituals with Fortuni and Fae, enjoy serenades by the string quartet Bowjangles, or join in sing-alongs with The Magnificent Kevens—the washed-up rockstars desperate for one last encore.

Many performers are returning veterans, some having delighted audiences since the Circus Fields first came to life. Their presence ensures that the spirit of this unique Glastonbury tradition continues to thrive.

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