The Homecoming – an award-winning, one-day circus-inspired extravaganza in Newcastle-under-Lyme Town Centre, Staffordshire – ran for six years from 2014 to 2019. It celebrated the life and legacy of local-born legend and ‘father of the modern circus’, Philip Astley.
Born in Newcastle-under-Lyme in 1742, the son of a cabinet-maker, Astley, became a war hero and celebrated trick rider who brought together acrobats, clowns and riders into a 42-foot ring – the standard size of a circus ring still used today – to invent the modern circus as we know it.
The Homecoming was born from a desire to bring the circus back to Astley’s home town with a day of outdoor performance by artists from the UK and around the world springing up throughout the town centre. From traditional and contemporary circus to dance, theatre and more, it was a joy-filled celebration of a local legend.
The Homecoming was delivered by Newcastle Business Improvement District and Appetite in partnership with Newcastle Borough Council. It was funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and Without Walls Touring Network Partnership.
Fabulous event!
Street art/culture is bringing our town back to life!
Homecoming ’19 Audience Member
Mum loved the Acro-chaps...
...their cheeky banter really made her day
Homecoming ’19 Audience Member
"Me and my son cried at the drama with the couple it was beautiful"
Absolutely fantastic!
The acts and enthusiasm is brilliant. Wonderful day, looking forward to tonight.
Homecoming ’19 Audience Member
"Loved it every year is great"
