Ensemble Workshop by Stephen Guy | Photo: Andrew Brooks | Courtesy of Cabaret Mechanical Theatre.
Circus of Curiosities: An Exhibition of Moving Marvels
Open from 4 July– 3 January 2027
Circus of Curiosities: An Exhibition of Moving Marvels celebrates the wonderful craft, art and joy of moving sculpture. Created by leading contemporary makers this touring, family-friendly exhibition by Cabaret Mechanical Theatre, brings together animated models, toys and whimsical characters created by some of the finest contemporary automata makers.
With 25 vibrant, inspiring and witty mechanical sculptures, each piece springs to life at the push of a button or a turn of a handle. Inspired by the spectacle of the circus, these ingenious creations are full of humour, storytelling and surprise.
Alongside the exhibition, families can enjoy a dedicated creative play area, offering hands-on opportunities to experiment, build and be inspired, alongside chilling out in the big top. It’s an automata extravaganza for all ages.
Circus by Ron Fuller | Photo: Heini Schneebeli | Courtesy of Cabaret Mechanical Theatre
Lion Tamer by Ron Fuller | Photo: Gary Alexander | Courtesy of Cabaret Mechanical Theatre
Tickets
Admission to this special exhibition is included in general admission tickets for the American Museum & Gardens, which gives entry to the museum, exhibition, gardens, American Garden Deli and gallery shop.
About the exhibition
Circus of Curiosities: An Exhibition of Moving Marvels is a touring exhibition from Cabaret Mechanical Theatre, the internationally renowned organisation dedicated to contemporary automata. For over four decades, it has championed artists who combine engineering, storytelling and humour to create kinetic artworks that delight audiences around the world.
Plan your visit
Find all the information you need for opening times, admission, accessibility, deli menus, online tickets and more
Past exhibitions
Discover previous special exhibitions by the American Museum & Gardens