Toronto’s Buskerfest returns to the downtown Yonge neighbourhood, August 21 to 24. Stretching from Queen to College and including Yonge-Dundas Square, this year’s festival includes more than 50 acts from around the world. One performer, dubbed Bendy Em, has traveled from Sydney, Australia, to take part.

So what exactly do you do, Bendy Em?
I do a comedy contortion show and squeeze myself into a 16-inch Plexiglas box.

And how did you first develop this unique talent?
I used to be a gymnast when I was a kid growing up. I’ve been doing it since 2001, and I was in a double act to start with — a different show. We were working on new ideas, and I was aware that I was flexible, so we threw it into the show. I did that for a couple years, and then we went our own ways.

So what’s the most challenging part of being a contortionist?
It’s getting harder as I get older, to be honest. I’m getting more aches and pains over the last couple years since I’ve been in the mid-30s. And not just doing shows, but lifting my equipment while traveling around the world. I need a roadie.

How much of your career is actually spent performing on the street?
A lot actually. When I’m home in Sydney, every weekend I do street theatre down at the Opera House. I’m always doing street shows in between festivals. When I’m over here, I base myself in Vancouver and perform at Granville Island between gigs.

Where is your favourite place to perform?
Toronto. It is actually. I’m not even lying about that. As far as festivals go, it is. It’s a really good festival, really well-supported, and there are so many people. It’s quite fun.

And what can we expect from your show?
Lots of fun and laughs and high energy and hopefully inspiration.

For more information on Buskerfest, go to www.torontobuskerfest.com.