Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

This sword swallower dropped by to give us a sneak preview of the City Spectacular

Dublin magician Jack Wise will be showing off his skills at the events in Dublin and Cork.

TheJournal.ie / YouTube

IT’S A NICHE pursuit, sword swallowing. There aren’t many of them in Ireland. In fact, there are only a few dozen full-time professional sword swallowers in the entire world. The skill can take up to ten years to learn, according to the profession’s official trade group, the Sword Swallowers Association International. 

Dublin magician Jack Wise dropped by TheJournal.ie‘s offices to talk about how he learned his trade, and to show off his skills to a rapt audience of staff members. And yes, we got to check the blade – it’s very, very real.

Jack is one of the star attractions at the Laya Healthcare City Spectacular, which takes place in Dublin’s Merrion Square between today and Sunday, and hits Cork’s Fitzgerald Park next weekend. The family-friendly event will be showcasing a range of record-breaking street performers, amongst other attractions.

Read: These four cheetah cubs are the new arrivals at this Cork wildlife park >

Read: Locals bearing the brunt as ‘plague of flies’ take up residence in Ringsend >

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Author
Daragh Brophy
View 5 comments
Close
5 Comments
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds