The international circus arrives across the South this August as part of a summer tour taking in Lancing, Eastbourne, Tunbridge Wells and other destinations along the South Coast.
There is something reassuringly thrilling about watching a performance that cannot be paused, edited or rescued by special effects.
Continental Circus Berlin is bringing its latest live production to Eastbourne this August, filling its theatre-style big top with aerial performers, high-wire artists, stunt riders, acrobats and a cast drawn from across the world.
The circus will take over Princes Park from Friday 7 to Wednesday 12 August, with daytime and evening performances running throughout its six-day stay.
At the centre of the production is the Globe of Death, a steel mesh sphere in which motorcycle riders loop vertically and horizontally at speed. It is one of the show’s most recognisable spectacles and the sort of act that feels considerably more intense when experienced from just a few rows away.
The programme also includes the Wheel of Death, high-wire artistry, aerial routines, juggling, hula hoop skills, choreography and comedy from circus performer Papeluxo. Cuban artist Mayrelis performs an extraordinary hair-hanging routine, while British aerialist Amber makes a guest appearance above the ring.
It is a modern circus production, but one that remains grounded in the traditional appeal of live human skill. Nothing is computer-generated or digitally enhanced. The excitement comes from seeing performers attempt feats of balance, strength and timing in front of a live audience.
The complete show runs for approximately two hours and takes place inside a climate-controlled big top with theatre-style seating. It has been designed as an all-ages production, combining the atmosphere of a traditional travelling circus with lighting, music and contemporary stunt performance.
Circus Berlin opens at Princes Park at 7pm on Friday 7 August.
Three performances follow on Saturday 8 August at 2pm, 5pm and 7.45pm, with shows at 2pm and 5pm on Sunday. Performances continue at 3pm and 7.30pm on Monday and Tuesday, before the Eastbourne run closes with midday and 3pm shows on Wednesday 12 August.
A choice of seating is available, ranging from side-view tiered seats to grandstand, ringside and VIP ringside options. Tickets across the 2026 tour are advertised from £10, with adult, concession and advance-saving prices varying by seating area.
Before arriving in Eastbourne, Circus Berlin is appearing at Beach Green in Lancing until Thursday 6 August, with afternoon and evening performances available.
The big top then travels to Dunorlan Park in Tunbridge Wells from Thursday 13 to Sunday 16 August. This gives audiences in Kent another opportunity to catch the production before the tour continues west along the South Coast.
Further summer stops include Lodmoor Country Park in Weymouth from 18 to 23 August and Branksome Recreation Ground in Poole from 24 to 31 August. The tour then moves to Central Park in Plymouth from 3 to 20 September. No additional South East dates are currently listed for September.
Lancing, Beach Green
Until 6 August
Eastbourne, Princes Park
7 to 12 August
Tunbridge Wells, Dunorlan Park
13 to 16 August
Weymouth, Lodmoor Country Park
18 to 23 August
Poole, Branksome Recreation Ground
24 to 31 August
Plymouth, Central Park
3 to 20 September
Full performance times and tickets are available through the official Circus Berlin website. Dates and availability are subject to change.
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