Election 2024: Circus Performers and Punters Juggle Opinions Amid Political High Wire Act

2024 General Election: Performers Label Politicians Inadequate Compared to Clowns, as Votes Loom Large in Electoral Spectacle

In a recent installment of Sky's Bench Across Britain series, south Leicestershire's entertainers and audience members express that parliamentary decisions could critically impact the survival of the circus industry.

Residential editor @JasonFarrellSky

Thursday, June 20, 2024, 08:

For an enhanced video experience, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

Even the realm of diversion is not immune to political influences.

Legislative actions taken within the halls of government may critically impact the survival of the circus industry. As with numerous other sectors, it is navigating a precarious balance between escalating expenses and financially constrained spectators.

Latest on Election: Starmer’s Spouse Expresses Distress Over Home Protest, Feeling 'Ill'

In our latest installment of the Bench Across Britain series, we stopped by a circus tent in southern Leiceshire, where attendees seek a brief escape from reality, only to be met by Sky News reporters inquiring about their thoughts on the general election.

First up, we chatted with the entertainers: tightrope artist Ksenia Archer made a surprise visit to our bench, still secured in her safety gear.

"Our expenses have skyrocketed," she stated.

"Regrettably, our patrons are also facing higher expenses. We haven't been able to raise our ticket prices; instead, we've had to reduce them to attract any customers."

Further Details on the 2024 General Election

Ruth Davidson Criticizes Conservative Party's 'Shabby' Campaign Amid Election Betting Controversy

Calls for Maturity from Conservatives and Labour to Address Social Care Dilemma as Volunteer Shares Personal Experience

Rishi Sunak experienced highs, lows, and challenging moments in the recent televised election debate.

Associated Subjects:

She also stated: "The circus originated in England, and it has a history spanning over 250 years. However, without necessary support, we are gradually facing extinction."

At Circus Cortex, the artists dazzle and terrify, hanging from cords, twirling midair, and steadying themselves atop unstable frameworks – yet their biggest fear is a lack of audience.

The sector has lobbied to lower VAT on ticket prices to 5%, similar to reductions seen in certain European nations and temporarily implemented after the COVID-19 outbreak.

Circus director Paul Archer stated, "Politicians are out of touch with our challenges: the rising visa expenses for bringing performers to the UK, along with surging transport costs, are burdensome. Our industry requires assistance."

Beneath their costumes and makeup, the entertainers face the same everyday challenges as the rest of us.

Backstage, ballerina Rebecca Peters mentioned she's being cautious with her spending. "With the increase in costs, purchasing necessities and commuting to London for tryouts has become quite costly," she explained.

Discover more: Sikh constituents in crucial Labour districts reveal their priorities. 'Auramancer Sunak' and Starmer’s impact on TikTok.

The Circus Cortex tent is pitched in a field in southern Leicestershire, recognized as one of the top 40 safest Conservative constituencies, where a recent survey showed the Conservatives with an eight-point advantage over Labour. This was the situation just before the right-leaning entertainer Nigel Farage threw his hat into the ring.

Find out which political party might prevail in your local area

Although he is campaigning in Clacton, the prominent Brexit advocate might significantly erode the Conservative Party’s support. Many spectators at the event appeared disillusioned with the major political parties.

"HGV driver Denzil Furtado expressed complete dissatisfaction with the government, including the Labour Party, stating, "I believe they fail to provide anything of significance."

"I am genuinely persuaded by Nigel Farage's recent prominence. He truly possesses the charm and presence of a potential prime minister."

Her colleague, software engineer Priya Fernandes, held a different view: "I think we should allow the current administration another opportunity to demonstrate their true capabilities," she stated.

"Currently, inflation is decreasing – I believe they warrant another opportunity."

Stay informed about the most recent developments in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

Some members of the crowd expressed their intention to abstain from voting despite having specific desires like addressing the rising cost of living, decreasing taxes, increasing assistance for single mothers, curtailing immigration, or enhancing public services.

Yet, they feel their vote has little impact. Others are casting their ballots with reluctance.

Program manager Margarita Grigorian stated, "My choice is Labour, as I prefer not to support the Conservatives, and I find the other parties too insignificant and feeble."

In a recent interview with Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby, Keir Starmer asserted, "I'm not running a circus." However, the prevailing mood in south Leicestershire is a desire for spectacle – they're looking for a strong leader, something bold and attention-grabbing.

When questioned about who the biggest joker in the election was, Mr. Archer responded, "They lack the professionalism to even be considered clowns."

"Grasping the essence of humor and timing is crucial, and they seem to lack both, don't they?"

As we approach the final days before the election, the climax is upon us, leaving many voters puzzled as they attempt to decipher the significance of the unfolding events.

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

Associated Subjects

Footer of Sky News

Information About Sky News

Services Offered by Sky News

Sky Network Channels

Additional Sky Websites