Local arts charity In Your Space Circus (IYSC) have announced plans to develop the Cathedral School into a new Circus School and circus arts venue!

IYSC is a local circus school, working with local, national and international artists. One of the most innovative and dynamic arts organisations in Derry and the North-West of Ireland, they combine circus and street theatre as a vehicle for personal, social and community development.

In partnership with St Columb’s Cathedral, IYSC will be refurbishing the Cathedral School building and rejuvenating a vital piece of the city’s built heritage, once considered to be ‘at risk’. IYSC has secured funding to undergo a major capital fundraising campaign to secure funding, investment and donations to enable the organisation to restore and fit-out this wonderful building.

Once restored, it is hoped that the building will be used to deliver circus training and workshops, providing artists with a training and collaboration space, hosting events, creating artistic productions, developing new tourism products, and inviting international residencies.

IYSC’s ambition is to nurture local talent and attract artists from outside of the City in their new circus arts venue.  The project will mark a significant milestone in the history of IYSC and will allow the organisation to reach its full potential.

Speaking after the announcement, Cath McBride, Company Director at IYSC, said, “We could not be more delighted with this opportunity! We feel privileged to have become the custodians of one of Derry’s most stunning heritage assets, and despite the fundraising challenge in front of us, we just cannot wait to get into the building and make it our home!”

Initial grant and support funding has been provided by the Architectural Heritage Fund and Arts and Business NI. However, IYSC will shortly be launching an online giving campaign and will be inviting sponsorship from local businesses to support the overall fundraising effort. Keep an eye on their socials for more information or get in touch at cath@inyourspaceni.org for more information.

The Chamber are thrilled to see such an innovative and exciting initiative coming to Derry and the North West and we would encourage the local business community to support this project in any way they can, which is sure to add to the rich history of artistic excellence here in the city! Good luck In Your Space Circus!