The week started with an introduction to our trainers from the National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA) and Cirque Du Monde, before being thrown into a trust exercise where we were blindfolded and walked through the streets of Pahran and led to the ‘Green Street Studio’ which was to be our base for the week. It was here the fun began.

Over the week we learned and played many circus workshop games, as these are an important and valuable tool to get a group of kids and adults to work together as a team, break down personal barriers, and have fun! The games and group activities were varied, some physical based and others more artistic allowing each member of the group the opportunity to have input whilst making everyone feel comfortable and a part of the group.

We had a class with NICA’s main Rigger, where we learned aspects of safety, equipment strengths and what to look for when rigging new venues or from trees in public spaces and what the councils require. She also showed & explained to us the rigging systems and safety lines in the main training centre.

On Wednesday we spent some time with NICA’s head Physiotherapist, where we examined the best ways to deal with injuries and the importance of the rehabilitation processes. We were also shown what to look for in our acts and performers that may lead to injury or physical problems in the future and the importance of preventing the situations we deem as a hazard or danger to our students.

On our final day we spent 3 hours with a variety of NICA’s top trainers to learn correct techniques of executing tricks from juggling, tumbling, adajio, hoops and basics in aerial work. This was great as I learnt a lot of new tricks to teach our kids at SEA!

During the week, we were lucky enough to catch two circus shows, one from NICA’s 2nd & 3rd year students, ‘De Vino’, and the other from West Side Circus, performed by 4 young adults.

The week’s training was invaluable learning in all areas of circus. It has also enhanced the passion I have to revive the circus at SEA. Circus is a wonderful tool to break down barriers and help youth gain confidence, teamwork, communication and so many other things, this can only help them to grow into much better adults.