It is anticipated that over 5,000 participants from 55 nations will gather for training, contests, and shows. The event, which is being organised by the European Juggling Association is being held in the municipality of Ovar, Aveiro’s district, for the first time.
“It’s the biggest and most colourful event in the world of juggling, featuring professionals, amateurs, hobbyists, new circus performers and street artists”, stated a source from the EJA, adding to the list “acrobats on the ground and in the air, unicyclists and manipulators of fire, hula-hoops and balloons”.
The organisation describes those who attend the Convention as “constitute a unique community of positively crazy people”, which makes the event a special opportunity to “exchange techniques, tricks and ideas”, not only in the sessions reserved for participants but also in initiatives open to the public, such as the parade of jugglers and other “performers”.
Despite its official name, the Convention is more “global” than European, since “people from all over the world take part every year”, which is reflected an exposure to techniques and cultural references from different continents.
“It’s a magical and exceptional world of active, creative and enthusiastic people who have a positive attitude towards their personal development, having fun and meeting new people. Age, profession, political views, religious beliefs or skin colour don’t matter”, the organisers emphasised.