Tipperary’s most daring duo, Anouk Baldin-Merer and Millie Sheppard are two of our young Ambassadors for Cruinniú na nÓg 2022!

Both dab hands when it comes to performing, Millie (12) and Anouk (14) have been mainstays in Cloughjordan Circus Club since they were just eight years old. 

“Expressing yourself through what you love”

Learning everything from juggling to unicycling, rola bola to acro dance, the bravery, flexibility and creativity of this talented pair would tempt just about anyone to run away with the circus!

Millie, a keen ballet dancer as well as a circus performer, says the best thing about Cruinniú na nÓg is “that it gives young people a chance to show their skills and talents and be appreciated for what they can do.” 

For this passionate young performer, creativity is all about “expressing yourself through what you love and being able to make new things and have new ideas.”

As for Anouk, having moved to Ireland from France seven years ago, the creative expression that circus has given her is what she especially loves: “When I’m engaged in it I always feel stimulated and excited.” 

And her advice to other young people hoping to dip a toe into new, exciting creative activities? “Keep at it even if you don’t feel very motivated because if you want to expand on your creativity you need to be consistent with it.” Wise words!

Both Millie and Anouk will show off their super skills as part of Cloughjordan Circus Club’s ‘Pick and Mix’ event for Cruinniú na nÓg. Boasting a variety of acts and walkabout characters, this family-friendly performance takes place on Cloughjordan Village Green on 11th June.

Read more about all four of our Cruinniú na nÓg 2022 Ambassadors.

Find a host of fantastic, free Cruinniú na nÓg events near you.