A free street theatre and circus festival proved a proper party in the park and a hit on the high street when it brought MAYhem to Barnsley over three weekends.

The madcap event staged by the council and Yellow Bus Events toured our Principal Towns of Cudworth, Hoyland, Goldthorpe, Penistone, Royston and Wombwell, bringing almost 9,000 people to our parks, high streets and market places.

Combining an arena-style show and walkabout performances, the interactive events featured some of the best national and international street theatre and circus performers.

It showcased jaw-dropping acts who regularly appear at Covent Garden, Glastonbury Festival, Edinburgh Festival and major events around the world.

From the hilarious Granny Turismo and eccentric Dr Pandemonius Fish to the daring Felicity Footloose and ingenious silent comic Diego Spano, the festival had something for everyone.

Barnsley Council’s arts and events team engaged Yellow Bus Events to stage the borough-wide circus celebration, which was funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

Cllr Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “MAYhem has been a great addition to the cultural offer in our Principal Towns and we were delighted to receive some great feedback from people who enjoyed top-class entertainment on their doorstep.

“As part of our Principal Towns and Local Centres Programme, we want to bring a buzz to our high streets, market places and parks and ensure people living right across our borough have the chance to enjoy fun and memorable cultural experiences.

“I hope everyone enjoyed some family-friendly fun in the sunshine. MAYhem was a welcome addition to our busy programme of events across Barnsley and I encourage everyone to visit our website to see what is coming up this summer.”

Visit barnsley.gov.uk/events for more information about our events.

Find out all about how we’re investing in your community at barnsley.gov.uk/PrincipalTowns.