What is a Busker?

A busker is a street performer who entertains, shocks and delights others in return for voluntary donations. Street theatre needs a few things to work: a performer with a show, an audience, and an exchange of energy and appreciation.

What do Buskers do?

Well, what don’t they do? Buskers perform in many ways ranging from standing motionless as a statue to death defying leaps and feats of faith. In between all that they may juggle, balance, dance, shoot chickens out of cannons and maybe do some magic tricks... all to get your attention, your applause, and your donations.

How much money should I give a Busker?

It is up to you how much you pay. Buskers choose to make their living entertaining on the streets and by ‘passing the hat’. So if you enjoy their performance let them know when the hat is passed to you.

Things to consider when making a contribution to the hat:

How much would you expect to pay for a single or family ticket to a similar performance at the theatre or the circus? Consider the cost of a cup of coffee or a cold drink. Did you get equal or more amounts of fun, laughter and memories as you would with a coffee or cold drink? Your generous contributions are ultimately what will keep these world class performers coming back to Cairns, and it is these impressions of Cairns that they take with them all over the world.  So help keep them coming back to our town for years to come by showing them great hospitallity and generousity.

How do I get the most out of the festival?

Grab a programme or visit our website and map out the shows or acts you would like to see each day.

Arrive at the performance/ pitch site early enough to claim a good viewing position.

Wear a hat and plenty of sunscreen. Bring a bit of dosh – as these performers are really worthy or your donations.

Be aware that performers may ask you to participate in their show. Please feel free to decline for any reason and please use caution and common sense at all times.

Bring your camera and dont be shy about asking the busker for a photo with you and your friends, they love it.

Buy tickets to the opening night show early as they do tend to sellout. Involve your friends and family and participate ferociously.

Street performance is unlike watching TV or a show at the theatre; the buskers can actually see their audience (that’s you), so dump your inhibitions, participate and get amongst it and get the most out of your festival.

Take a few minutes to complete the online survey and tell us how we can make your festival experience even better.