They wowed audiences of all ages last year with Sabotage and this July the internationally renowned NoFit State returns to Galway International Arts Festival with its stunning new production Carnation. Discover all about it and how to get tickets right here!
For its only scheduled Irish dates, this breath-taking new show unleashes dazzling skill and heart-stopping moments, with live music and incredible imagery in their fully-seated NoFit State Big Top at Nimmo’s Pier in Galway.
A spectacular celebration of contemporary circus, Carnation combines breathtaking physicality, live music and irrepressible energy. The production has captivated critics and audiences alike, with Entertainment Now calling it ‘captivating to audiences of all ages’ and ‘magical’. Reviews have praised its ‘spectacular, explosively thrilling’ performance style (The Latest), while MSN declared that ‘the show has everything’. Featuring a live band that is ‘worth the price of admission alone’ (Entertainment Now), Carnation showcases the artistry of an ‘extraordinary company’ (The Latest) whose distinctive blend of daring, beauty and innovation continues to redefine contemporary circus.
The revolution is coming and I have nothing to wear.
Created by Firenza Guidi and NoFit State, Carnation explodes in a thrilling rush of world-class circus, live music and breathtaking spectacle. Daring aerial feats, bold cinematic imagery and jaw-dropping physicality combine in a fully immersive experience that surrounds audiences from every angle.
Carnation celebrates ordinary people doing extraordinary things, delivering dazzling skills and edge-of-your-seat moments while offering a powerful reflection on the times we live in and a call to stand up and be heard.
With 40 years at the forefront of European circus, NoFit State continues to thrill, surprise and mesmerise audiences around the world. Carnation is an edge-of-your-seat spectacle. Unmissable.
Tickets on sale now from giaf.ie
Show Times;
10–26 July, 8pm
Matinees Saturday 11, 18 and 25 July, 1pm
Sunday 12, 19 and 26 July 1pm show only
No shows Tuesday 14 and Monday 20 July
First Thought Backstage
Post-show talk with the company on Sunday 12 July
Duration: 2 hours approx. With Interval
For nearly half a century, Galway International Arts Festival (GIAF) has helped shape Ireland’s cultural landscape- presenting a world-class annual festival that unites Irish and international artists across a vibrant, multidisciplinary programme; commissioning, producing and touring new work; supporting the next generation of artists; and championing leading ideas through its First Thought series, while increasingly embedding inclusivity and sustainability across its programmes. As it approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027, GIAF will build on its legacy in Galway to enhance Ireland’s reputation for creativity, innovation and international connection. GIAF 2026 will take place from 13–26 July
Galway International Arts Festival would like to acknowledge the support of its principal funding agencies The Arts Council and Fáilte Ireland; its Drinks Partner Heineken®; and its Education Partner University of Galway.
Keep Updated on all things Galway International Arts Festival by following them on Instagram @GalwayIntArts, Facebook @GalwayInternationalArtsFest, Tik Tok @GalwayIntArts and X @GalwayIntArts.
All images and video courtesy Galway International Arts Festival.
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