Circomedia Launches Summer Circus & Performance Courses

Circomedia, Bristol’s acclaimed centre for contemporary circus and physical theatre, is delighted to unveil an expanded programme of summer short courses, taking place the week of Monday 14th July 2025.

Designed for emerging and established artists alike, and presented as part of Circomedia’s new Diploma offering, this new series of masterclasses and introductory workshops presents a vibrant opportunity for creative exploration, technical training and artistic connection, welcoming both UK-based and international participants.

From intensive devising and corporeal mime to flying trapeze and physical theatre games, Circomedia’s Kingswood training site will become a hive of circus and performance energy over one exciting week in July. Each course is led by highly regarded practitioners working at the forefront of their disciplines, ensuring participants receive professional-level guidance in a supportive and collaborative environment.

“We’re excited to welcome a wide spectrum of participants, including artists, performers, and makers to explore, exchange, learn and play this summer,” says Dr. Jonathan Priest, Circomedia’s Diploma Course Leader. “With sessions ranging from beginner-level to professional intensives, there’s something here for anyone interested in circus artistry and physical performance.”

The programme includes:

• Embodiment of the Performer – Monday 14 – Thursday 17 July A four-day corporeal mime masterclass with Head of Physical Theatre Moira Hunt, drawing on the techniques of Étienne Decroux. This course is designed to develop intuitive, responsive and articulate movement languages for performers. 21+ | For professionals | £400
• Intensive Devising Workshops – Monday 14 – Tuesday 15 July Award-winning theatre-maker George Orange Fuller leads this two-day devising lab rooted in Bogart & Landau’s ‘Viewpoints’ technique and contemporary circus, encouraging participants to create through chaos and collaboration. 18+ | Prior experience required | £200
• Clowning for Performance – Wednesday 16 – Thursday 17 July Also led by George Orange Fuller, drawing on his expertise as an award-winning creator and clown, this workshop offers a rare chance to explore performance clowning through short-form creation, open to both seasoned and first-time clowns. 18+ | Prior experience required | £200
• Come and Fly! Flying Trapeze Workshops – Wednesday 16 & Thursday 17 July In partnership with Bristol’s own Above and Beyond, Circomedia invites adventurers to experience the thrill of flight on a professional rig in this unique add-on course. 18+ | All levels | £35 per 2hr session
• Circus as Drawing Symposium – Friday 18 July Following its popular March edition, this symposium returns to explore the intersection of circus and visual arts. Visual artists and circus artists alike will collaborate on creative research blending movement, drawing, and performance in shared physical space. 18+ | All levels | £85 / £35 life drawing only
• Beginners’ Physical Theatre Games – Saturday 19 July A playful one-day introduction to the world of physical theatre, also led by acclaimed theatre maker Moira Hunt. Ideal for curious beginners looking to engage creatively through structured play. 18+ | No experience required | £50

With each of these courses being held at Circomedia’s Kingswood campus, the summer programme not only provides high-quality instruction but also a rare chance to connect with other creatives across disciplines. Whether you’re a circus artist, actor, dancer, or visual artist, this summer at Circomedia offers a unique platform for experimentation, growth, and collaboration.

Limited spaces are available, and early booking is strongly recommended. For full details, visit https://www.circomedia.com/short-courses/ or contact [email protected].

Main Image: Courtesy of Circomedia

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