Kiama once again hosted the extraordinary KISS Festival, a celebration of performance, humour, and sheer mayhem that left audiences spellbound.

The Kiama International Seaside Arts Festival, affectionately known as KISS, was a brainchild born from the whims of two festival enthusiasts - Aussie Tamara Campbell and Brit Dave Evans. Having travelled across 42 countries and spent two decades touring Europe's vibrant festival circuit, they couldn't resist the joy of laughter and hijinks in their hometown.

What set the KISS Festival apart was its diverse array of exceptional performers. From world-class circus acts to award-winning magicians, the festival offered something for everyone – and totally free with audiences encouraged to contribute as the hat was passed around after a performance.

Wham Glam Circus Man was a thrilling circus spectacle that combined magic, music, comedy, and death-defying stunts, all set to the pulsating beats of rock and roll. It was a show that left the audience on the edge of their seats.

A master of sleight of hand magic, Nick Nickolas presented a show that seamlessly blended expert magic tricks with uproarious laughter, providing wholesome entertainment for the entire family.

Kiki was a contortionist, acrobat, and a self-appointed cultural attaché from a fictional country. Her unique blend of stand-up and physical comedy left the audience in stitches. A demonstration of strength and resilience to keep the act going through the whole weekend and staying in control of the whole event!

The Ferret Guy was Roaming through the crowd with an empty cage perplexing tourists and locals alike. 

The local group the Sulli-vans led by Kevin Sullivan was a huge hit. This multi-generational family of country artists delivered breathtaking harmonies and heartfelt performances that tugged at the heartstrings.

So many artists roaming black beach with their take on creative play - such as Orshi, a talented cartoon artist who delighted the crowd with super quick and fun cartoons, captured the crowd.

And so many more – The soul movers, Golden Gaytimes, Nick and Tia with their unforgettable lyrics, JP Koala with the medieval axes and cute cuddly koalas! Cha cha del mar, Soul flamenco and so many more delighted the audience.  

Adults and children alike were entertained with the activities on offer. The adventure forest and a musical adventure playground. A sensory house and the flying trapeze. And don’t forget the Kids comedy zone. A truly amazing offering for the community and did the organisers proud.  

The KISS Festival, with its diverse range of acts, truly lived up to its name, creating unforgettable moments and memories for all who attended. With its roots firmly planted in a simple yet powerful idea - the joy of laughter and performance - the festival has become a staple event that spreads happiness and laughter throughout Kiama for the weekend.

Whether you were a fan of circus stunts, magic, comedy, or just a good time, the KISS Festival in Kiama was and is in the future, a must-attend event. Visitors marked their calendars, gathered their friends and family, and joined in the celebration of performance, laughter, and general mayhem at the KISS Festival. It was a giant KISS to the arts and the festival scene that no one would want to miss. Mark your calendars for next year!