june, 2025
Event Details
Join us for a spellbinding journey behind the velvet curtain as we welcome Norman Barrett MBE, universally hailed as “The World’s Greatest Ringmaster,” to the The Monastery’s magnificent Great Nave. Step into a world of glittering sawdust and soaring spotlights while Britain’s best-loved circus icon shares decades of centre-ring magic, from Blackpool Tower Circus to breath-taking big-top tours across multiple continents.
What can I expect?
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Intimate storytelling: Delight in Norman’s warm, witty recollections of keeping audiences enthralled from Antwerp to Adelaide.
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Q&A: Raise your hand to ask Britain’s most decorated ringmaster anything—from why the ring is exactly 42-feet across to how he earned his MBE.
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Sacred space, circus soul: All of this unfolds beneath the soaring arches of Manchester’s modern-gothic “Taj Mahal of the North,” lending the stories extra resonance and wonder.
How will I benefit?
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Inspiration & insight: Learn how resilience, humour and showmanship can turn any stage into a place of possibility.
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Creative ignition: Rediscover the art of spectacle and take away tips on captivating an audience—perfect for presenters, teachers and performers alike.
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Community connection: Meet fellow circus aficionados, heritage enthusiasts and curiosity-seekers over post-talk refreshments in the Welcome Wing.
Who is it for?
Whether you’re a lifelong circus lover, a performing-arts student, a heritage buff, or simply hungry for feel-good stories that sparkle with humanity, this unique event promises to uplift, amuse and amaze. Families, solo adventurers and group bookings are all warmly welcomed.
When?
Sunday, 1st June 2025
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Doors & café open: 1:30 PM
- In-conversation: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Booking info
Secure your seat in the ring now—places are limited to preserve the intimate, fireside-chat atmosphere.
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Advance tickets: £7.50 (General) | £5 (Concession)
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How to book: Click here to reserve your place
- Accessibility: Step-free entrance, accessible toilets, parking & facilities. Please email [email protected] with any additional requirements.
Come celebrate a living legend and leave with your imagination high-wire-walking through history.
Norman Barrett MBE hasn’t just seen the circus; he is the circus.
Directions to the Monastery here.