PIGEON FORGE, Tennessee—July 28, 2023 — The Mountain of Entertainment Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., proudly announces the induction of their talented “Array” cast member and headliner performer, Niels Duinker, into the prestigious International Jugglers’ Association (IJA) Hall of Fame. Recently in South Bend, Ind., Duinker was honored with the “Excellence in Education Award” by the IJA, recognizing his outstanding contributions to teaching and promoting the art of juggling.
Duinker, from Amsterdam, Netherlands, has been juggling since he was 12-years-old and is currently performing his comedy juggling act at the “Array” Variety Show. This show opened its doors on April 7, offering an unparalleled musical variety experience in Pigeon Forge with world-class headliners from across the globe. Duinker formerly worked at The Comedy Barn Theater in Pigeon Forge, in other theaters in Ohio and South Carolina, as well as on cruise ships, and many other places throughout Europe.
During the prestigious award ceremony, Duinker’s outstanding dedication to juggling education was highlighted by David Cain, representative of the Museum of Juggling History. Cain commended Duinker’s unparalleled work ethic and commitment to promoting the art of juggling to enthusiasts of all levels. Notably, Duinker has authored 17 books on juggling instruction and history, some of which he wrote himself, while others were published in association with him. Duinker’s “Learn-to-Juggle” book is available in the Mountain of Entertainment Theater’s gift shop.
Duinker has performed on all seven continents and holds eight Guinness Book of World Records in juggling, which include two of his most impressive feats, juggling 14 cups at once and juggling for the longest duration while blindfolded. One of Duinker’s juggling cups is on display at the Guinness World Record Museum in Copenhagen.
Since its establishment in 1947, the International Jugglers’ Association has been a cornerstone for jugglers worldwide, serving as the governing body for juggling and a vital resource within the juggling community. Each year, the IJA holds its annual convention to acknowledge individuals who demonstrate remarkable talent and dedication to the world of juggling. The “Excellence in Education Award” specifically celebrates recipients’ exceptional efforts in teaching juggling to non-jugglers and expanding the knowledge of those skilled in the art.
At a different awards ceremony in 2012 Duinker was awarded the Golden Merlin Award from the International Magician’s Society (IMS), for “Variety Act of the Year.” This prestigious award is only presented to those who have achieved the highest level in their craft, both on the national and international stage.
Duinker received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands in 2008. He also attended the Codarts University of the Arts in Rotterdam (circus school).
He is currently president of the International Sport Juggling Federation.
“The ‘Array’ Variety Show proudly joins in celebrating Niels Duinker’s remarkable achievements as a juggling educator, acknowledging the profound impact he has made on the juggling community and beyond,” said Hugh Warren, producer/host/emcee/performer of the “Array” Variety Show. “We are immensely proud to have Niels as part of our ‘Array‘ family. His talent and dedication to juggling education have enriched the lives of countless individuals, and this prestigious, well-deserved award is a testament to his exceptional contributions.”
The “Array” Variety Show is an unparalleled musical variety experience. Featuring professional headliners from across the globe, “Array” offers diverse specialty acts and performances, captivating audiences with an unforgettable entertainment extravaganza.
For ticket information and showtimes to see Duinker in action at the “Array” Variety Show at the all-new Mountain of Entertainment Theater call the theater’s box office (865) 245-4FUN (4386) or visit www.ArrayVarietyShow.com. The Mountain of Entertainment Theater is located at 2135 Parkway (between traffic lights 0 and 1) in Pigeon Forge and seats 534 people. Show times are Monday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now. Ticket prices are $38.95 plus tax for adults and $12.95 plus tax for children ages 4 to 11. Children ages 1-3 are free if they are sitting on an adult’s lap. Group rates are available for groups of 20 or more. Concessions are available including Amish pretzels, popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. The theater will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. The show will run for this season until Dec. 30th, 2023. Then it will close for two months and open back up in March of 2024.
Duinker has received the following awards and honors:
· Induction into international Jugglers Association Hall of Fame, 2023
· Award of Excellence, The Museum of Juggling History, 2020
· “Juggler of the Decade,” International Magician’s Society, 2020
· Guinness Book of World Records, 2017
· Guinness Book of World Records, 2016
· Guinness Book of World Records, 2015 for 12 shaker cups juggled
· Guinness Book of World Records, 2016
· Guinness Book of World Records 2013, longest duration juggling blindfolded
· 3 prop Juggling Championship, 2013, The Netherlands, Silver medal
· “Variety Act of the Year” – International Magicians Society, 2012, 2013, 2016
· 2-times Guinness Book of World Records, 2012 for contact juggling technique, “The Butterfly” achieved in three minutes and for the most juggling back cross catches in one minute (65).
· Guinness Book of World Records 2011, for longest duration juggling three objects blindfolded in 6 minutes and 29 seconds
· National Juggling Championships 2011, The Netherlands – Silver Medal
· National Juggling Championships 2009, The Netherlands – Silver Medal
· Taiwan Circus Festival 2009 – Golden Award
· Taiwan Circus Festival 2009 – Award for the best juggler
· Japan Juggling Championships 2009, 5 clubs – Silver Medal
· National Juggling Championships 2007, The Netherlands – Gold Medal
· International Jugglers’ Association 2006, Extreme Juggling – Gold Medal
· National Juggling Championships 2005, The Netherlands – Gold Medal
· National Juggling Championships 2005, The Netherlands – Gold Medal (2x)
· World Juggling Federation Championships 2004, United States – Silver Medal
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Deborah Fee Newsom
Director of Public Relations
Mountain of Entertainment Theater
(865) 414-6887 (cell)