The Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum’s new summer exhibition Under the Big Top features the return of a very popular attraction. ‘Australasia’s Largest Smallest Travelling Circus’ is an impressive collection of miniature circus performers, animals, vehicles and attractions that were hand-made by local Ashburton plumber Rex Hockings in the 1950s.

Children will be able to embrace the magic of the circus by creating their own magic tricks and magician’s tools in our temporary programme space in the Murney Room. There will also be a special circus skills workshop on 25 January run in partnership with Canterbury Circus Trust and a Make Your Own Circus Ride activity on 27 January. Bookings are required for these events so call or email us now to reserve a spot.

Under the Big Top will be open until 13 February 2022 so whether you’re a kid big or small, or a kid at heart, come one, come all!