After wowing audiences of all ages at last year’s Galway International Arts Festival with the acclaimed Sabotage, the internationally renowned contemporary circus company NoFit State is set to return this July with its spectacular new production, Carnation.
Presented for its only scheduled Irish performances, Carnation will take over NoFit State’s fully seated Big Top at Nimmo’s Pier, Galway, from 10–26 July, promising audiences an unforgettable experience packed with breathtaking circus artistry, live music and stunning visual spectacle.
Created by Firenza Guidi and NoFit State, Carnation is a thrilling celebration of contemporary circus that combines daring aerial feats, jaw-dropping physicality and bold cinematic imagery with the infectious energy of a live band. Performed in an immersive environment that surrounds audiences from every angle, the production invites spectators into a world where extraordinary skill and powerful storytelling collide.
At its heart lies a provocative question: “The revolution is coming and I have nothing to wear.” From this striking premise emerges a vibrant and thought-provoking exploration of our times, celebrating ordinary people who achieve extraordinary things while encouraging audiences to stand up, be heard and embrace collective action.
The production has already earned widespread critical acclaim. Entertainment Now described Carnation as “captivating to audiences of all ages” and “magical,” while The Latest praised its “spectacular, explosively thrilling” performance style. MSN declared simply that “the show has everything.” Particular praise has also been reserved for the live band, described by Entertainment Now as “worth the price of admission alone,” underscoring the central role music plays in driving the show’s irresistible momentum.
For nearly 40 years, NoFit State has been at the forefront of contemporary circus in Europe, building an international reputation for innovation, ambition and artistic excellence. Known for pushing the boundaries of the art form, the company continues to create productions that blend risk-taking physical performance with powerful theatrical vision. With Carnation, NoFit State once again demonstrates why it remains one of the world’s most exciting and influential circus companies.
Audiences can expect an exhilarating mix of beauty, danger, humour and humanity as performers execute astonishing aerial manoeuvres, acrobatic feats and ensemble sequences that seem to defy possibility. Yet beyond the spectacle, Carnation offers a deeper reflection on resilience, community and the challenges of modern life, creating an experience that is as emotionally resonant as it is visually stunning.
The production runs nightly at 8pm from 10–26 July, with special matinee performances on Saturdays 11, 18 and 25 July at 1pm, and Sunday performances on 12, 19 and 26 July at 1pm only. There are no performances on Tuesday 14 July or Monday 20 July. Running for approximately two hours, including an interval, the show offers audiences a full evening of world-class entertainment.
Festival-goers will also have the opportunity to gain additional insight into the company’s creative process through a First Thought Backstage post-show discussion with the artists on Sunday 12 July.
NoFit State’s return forms part of the vibrant programme of Galway International Arts Festival, one of Ireland’s leading cultural events. For nearly five decades, the festival has played a central role in shaping Ireland’s cultural landscape by presenting world-class Irish and international artists across multiple disciplines, commissioning and producing new work, supporting emerging talent and fostering important conversations through initiatives such as its First Thought series.
As Galway International Arts Festival approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027, it continues to strengthen Ireland’s reputation for creativity, innovation and international cultural exchange. The 2026 festival will take place from 13–26 July.
Tickets for Carnation are on sale now at giaf.ie With its combination of breathtaking circus skills, live music, immersive staging and powerful themes, this edge-of-your-seat spectacle promises to be one of the standout events of the summer festival season.
Unmissable.
