Well I returned to the library today and thanks to the responses I got the problem is solved!
I first tried to get my hands on the "high inrush" breaker that Mike had suggested. It would have taken at least a week to get it, so I decided to try the dimmer route.
I replaced the switches with 2 Lightolier Onset dimmers. Like the Maestro dimmers, they fade on and off. The breaker will not trip now.
Thanks again for helping me out, I owe each of you a beer!
