Pelat

A joyous and heartfelt collaborative circus performance where the public become necessary assistants in the erection of a large, handcrafted, wooden pole, and essential players in the show’s thrilling finale.

Inspired by traditional Catalan Maypole festivals, Pelat is Joan Català’s singular opus and a love song to the idea that 'it takes a village'. Català’s use of rhythm, audience participation, non-verbal performance and body language chooses to defy what may separate us, and instead celebrate community, trust, purpose, and togetherness.

Filled with humour, joy, and tenderness, Pelat not only erases the boundaries between dance, circus, and theatre – but also the boundaries between performer and spectator. It is community art in its purist form.

Having toured the show globally for over ten years, Català now brings his unique and acclaimed performance to Carlow to mark the opening of the 2024 festival.

Supported by

In partnership with