Nell Gifford

Nell Gifford (1973 - 2019) was the co-founder of Giffords Circus, a traditional circus that tours the United Kingdom, particularly known for its intimate, innovative, and high-quality performances. Born in Oxford, England, Nell Gifford's passion for the circus began at an early age, leading her to pursue a career that would eventually revolutionize the British circus scene.

Early Life

Nell Gifford was born in Oxford, England, in 1973. From a young age, she showed a keen interest in the performing arts and the magical world of the circus. Her early exposure to circus performances ignited a lifelong passion for the art form. Gifford pursued her education in English Literature at New College, Oxford, where she further explored themes of performance and narrative, elements that would later become central to her work with Giffords Circus.

Career

After completing her education, Nell Gifford traveled extensively, joining various traditional circuses across Europe and the United States. These experiences provided her with a deep understanding of circus arts and the operational aspects of running a circus. In 2000, alongside her then-husband, Toti Gifford, she founded Giffords Circus with the aim of reviving the traditional circus for a modern audience.

Giffords Circus quickly distinguished itself through its unique blend of theatrical storytelling, classic circus acts, and live music, all presented in a vintage-style tent that added to the intimate atmosphere. Nell Gifford's vision was to create a circus that was accessible, entertaining, and magical for audiences of all ages, a vision that has been realized through the circus's enduring popularity and critical acclaim.

Personal Life and Legacy

Nell Gifford's personal life, particularly her battle with breast cancer, was marked by resilience and an unwavering commitment to her craft. Despite her health challenges, she continued to perform and manage Giffords Circus until her death in 2019. Her memoir, detailing her life and the creation of Giffords Circus, serves as an inspiration to many in the performing arts and beyond.

Nell Gifford's legacy is carried on through the continued success of Giffords Circus, which remains a testament to her vision, creativity, and dedication to the circus arts. Her contribution to the revival and innovation of the traditional circus in the UK has left an indelible mark on the industry.

See Also

• Circus
• Performing arts
• Breast cancer