'Smallest circus' aims to thrill neurodiverse kids

Mark Foot, who has dyslexia, plays Twiglet the Clown

A new circus aims to host the most inclusive and kindest Big Top in the country.

Devito's Circus, set up by David Devito, is the smallest touring Big Top circus in the country with just 175 seats and six performers. It offers relaxed performances for neurodivergent guests.

The team hires children from the community in partnership with the Glastonbury-based charity Children's World.

"We went to the charity with this idea 12 months ago and we've finally got to the stage of opening this year," said Mr Devito.

Mr Devito said he had always wanted to run his own circus as he has Asperger syndrome and was bullied at school.

"Every child can have a dream and this is my dream, which is finally coming true," he said.

"I've been in the circus since I was 15 and this is my happy place."

Devito's Circus blends classic circus entertainment with timeless comedy

The show, titled Laughter is a Worldwide Language, is a blend of classic circus entertainment and timeless comedy.

Twiglet the Clown is played by Mark Foot, who has dyslexia and struggled at school.

He said the circus helped him to express himself better through performance.

"Within the circus, it is very, very culturally diverse and is very accepting of everybody and anything.

"It doesn't matter what your weaknesses or strengths are, you all have a level base that you can communicate on and come together like a big family," he said.

Devito's Circus will be performing in Glastonbury and Street over the summer

Children and young adults from Children's World are employed to work front of house in the box office or selling candy floss and popcorn, and as backstage hands doing lighting or sound.

The first performance was held in Castle Cary earlier this month, with further shows booked on 2 and 3 August at Paddington Farm, Glastonbury, and 5-7 September at Merriman Park, Street.

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