Perth city centre was invaded by the internationally-acclaimed Market of Optimism

Jan 26 2010 by Alison Lowson, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

Perth city centre was invaded by the internationally-acclaimed Market of Optimism

THE much-anticipated Perth 800 celebrations got into full swing with the official launch of the year-long party.

On Thursday, Perth Museum and Art Gallery hosted the Perth 800 Opening Weekend Reception, which also marked the launch of the Museum’s special exhibition – Skin and Bone: Life and Death in Medieval Perth.

On Thursday and Friday in Perth Concert Hall a major new dance production, Off Kilter, got the Horsecross Perth 800 celebrations underway. Off Kilter, which combines ballet, hip hop, Indian, contemporary and Highland dance, is reviewed in todday’s PA Arts (page 26).

On Saturday, Perth city centre hosted the Market of Optimism.

The attraction was a unique piece of street performance and theatre, alive with artistry, animation and imagination, and aimed to get people smiling and in the mood for the Perth 800 party over the coming year.

Sixteen zany market stalls were pitched along King Edward Street, with ‘neuros’ handed to people to spend at the market.

The market featured two living cashpoints, a variety of wandering characters and a wide range of uplifting products, including Heavenly Estate Agents, Magic Lamp Sellers, Optimism Renewal Services and The Ratcharmer of Ballyshamaloola. The event was brought to Perth by Mischief La-Bas.