Ringmistress Marion Fossett on Tradition and Family as the Circus Celebrates 65 Years at the Rose of Tralee Festival
Ringmistress Marion Fossett embodies the heart and soul of Fossett’s Circus, a family tradition spanning generations. As the circus prepares for its remarkable 65th appearance at the Rose of Tralee Festival in Kerry, Marion reflects on the enduring appeal of the circus and the importance of keeping the magic alive.
“It’s a real honor to be back at the Rose of Tralee,” Marion says, her voice filled with warmth. “It’s become a tradition for us, and we’ve seen so many changes over the years, but the excitement and joy of the festival remain the same.”
Fossett’s Circus has been a fixture of the Irish entertainment landscape since 1903, weathering storms and adapting to changing times. Marion, a fourth-generation circus performer, carries the weight of that history with grace and passion.She speaks fondly of her grandfather, renowned ringmaster Billy Fossett, and the lessons he instilled in her.
“My grandfather was a legend,” she recalls. “He taught me the importance of respect – respect for the animals, respect for the audience, and respect for the tradition. He always said the circus is a place where people can escape their worries and believe in something magical.”
That sense of magic is something Marion strives to maintain. While the circus has evolved with the times, incorporating new acts and technologies, the core values remain unchanged. Family is at the heart of everything they do, both within the Fossett family and the extended circus community.”We are a family business, through and through,” Marion explains. “many of our performers have been with us for years, and they are like family to us. We travel together, we work together, and we support each other.”
The circus’s longevity is a testament to its ability to connect with audiences of all ages. From thrilling aerial displays to hilarious clown antics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.Marion believes the enduring appeal lies in the circus’s ability to transport people to another world.
“In a world that’s often fast-paced and stressful, the circus offers a chance to slow down, disconnect, and simply enjoy the spectacle,” she says. “It’s a place where you can rediscover your inner child and believe in the unachievable.”
As Fossett’s Circus prepares to take the stage at the Rose of Tralee Festival, Marion Fossett is filled with anticipation. She knows her grandfather would be proud to see the tradition continuing, and she’s determined to keep the magic alive for generations to come.
https://www.rte.ie/news/kerry/2023/0817/1369391-fossetts-circus-rose-of-tralee/
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