Daring Frenchman checks out Newport for high-wire attempt (From South Wales Argus)

Daring Frenchman checks out Newport for high-wire attempt

7:40pm Wednesday 24th February 2010

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A FRENCH high-wire artist practised walking across a tight-rope above Newport’s suspension bridge ahead of this summer’s Newport Festival.

Olivier Rostand, an aerial artist from Toulouse, was lifted by two industrial climbers at around 9.30am on Monday, when he tested his skills above the footbridge by the city’s Riverfront Theatre.

He spent two days assessing the safety issues involved in tackling the challenge and where he will attach the ropes from, which will be decided nearer the time.

He will perform at the Riverfront’s Big Splash event at the end of August, along with other artists, including the Invisible Circus group, which will bring burlesque dancing, cabaret and circus skills.

Among the festival’s highlights will be Xtremeaction Sports performing on water, a crazy golf day, fairground and final festival of fire, fireworks and fiery dragons.

Events will take place in the Riverfront and its surrounding area for free on August 29 and 30, September 4 and 5 and October 9.

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