Philip Astley Projects CIC

Philip Astley Projects CIC Celebrating both life and legacy of Philip Astley.

Born in Newcastle-under-Lyme in 1742, Philip Astley was the son of a cabinetmaker who grew up to become a military hero, the original ringmaster and father of the modern circus. In 1768, Astley opened his riding school, igniting a legacy that led to the development of the 42-foot (13m) diameter circus ring, a global standard size still used in circuses.

Philip Astley Projects CIC activities have included outdoor events such as AstleyFest and Astley’s Homecoming Festival, competitions, collaborations and exhibitions, circus skills workshops and master classes, online and live talks by creatives and performers, book publications, documentaries, animations, film showings covering behind the scenes and performances, and cross over collaborations, also the opening of the Philip Astley Centre.