Street Performers Festival brings 38 artists to Churchill Square
July 3–12: juggling lessons, aerial acrobatics, and performances from eight countries. No admission fee.
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The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival returns to Sir Winston Churchill Square from July 3 to 12, bringing 38 artists from eight countries to the downtown core.
The Busker Academy — a hands-on workshop for anyone walking past — is the festival's interactive heart. Experienced performers will teach juggling, stilts, and aerial acrobatics. Charlie Peters, who uses ze/hir pronouns, will lead juggling sessions. "Literally anybody who's passing by is welcome to come and we'll show them how the props work or in the case of some of my colleagues, they'll teach some aerial stuff," Peters said. "It's a joy, and I think that that joy of discovery and learning something new and challenging yourself isn't limited to our childhood."
Flyin' Bob Palmer will help the stilt-curious get off the ground, while Cirquetastic brings aerial acrobatics to curious crowds. The academy runs throughout the festival's 10-day span.
The main stage lineup features a mix of established and debut performers. Conrad Rivalland, a quarter-century street veteran, performs for the first time at Streetfest this year. Sean Arceta returns with Rhythm Speaks, a street dance showcase of the city's best B-Boys. Lyne Gosselin leads a newer show combining high-flying acrobatics and rodeo themes.
There's no cost to watch performances in the square — the festival is free to attend. However, every act is "pay what you will"; performers pass a hat during and after shows. It's customary to drop $5 to $20, though even a thank you is appreciated.
The Late Night Madness Cabaret is the only ticketed event, an adults-only indoor performance at The Citadel with no pre-planned schedule — the lineup changes nightly based on performer availability.
