NECCA Announces Their Fall Circus Class Schedule

Why you should join the circus … and take your friends and family with you? The New England Center for Circus Arts announces its Fall 2024 class schedule.

Recent research is showing that circus arts instruction improves physical literacy and helps develop other cognitive and social emotional abilities. What does this mean?  If you are looking for fitness and friendships, fun and physical engagement, JOIN THE CIRCUS!

Physical literacy is the knowledge, confidence, and competence to be physically active throughout life. In a multiple case study on circus arts instruction published in 2022 in the Physical Education & Sport Pedagogy Journal, it was reported that, “circus arts can help students develop physical literacy because it’s based on fundamental human body movements, and the activities can engage students regardless of their age, gender, race, interests, or ability level.”

But it isn’t just the body that can experience benefits.

Two recent reports on community circus programs in New Zealand noted that the teacher and parents found that the students demonstrated “improved motor skills, better teamwork and increased confidence” (Trotman, 2012, 2013, p. 11, p. 17). Another study of an Australian circus program for school children found, among other things, that circus “promotes positive risk taking both physically and emotionally, in a safe and supported environment, promotes physical health and body awareness, increases self-confidence, and improves social connectedness and leadership skills within the group” (Maglio & Mckinstry, 2008, p. 289).

The New England Center for Circus Arts in Brattleboro, Vermont announces their upcoming range of classes, workshops, and private lessons for youth, adults and seniors.

For adults, circus classes offer fitness as well as social connection.  In a 2024 article published in FasterCapital, titled Circus schools: The Amazing World of Circus Arts and How to Join It, they stated, “whether you are a beginner or a professional, you will find a welcoming and supportive environment where you can learn new skills, share your passion, and make lasting friendships. Joining the circus community is not only about training and performing, but also about embracing. . .creativity, collaboration, and fun.”

There are many positive aspects for youth, beyond the physical. In a 2021 article published in the Refugee Studies Journal, it was reported that “experiencing success through visible progress and holding the positively valued position of a circus artist seemed to contribute to the children’s self-esteem. In addition, the mental and physical support received during circus classes could increase interpersonal trust.”

After this summer’s Olympics, many children and adults are inspired to try their hand at athletic endeavors.  While the Olympics feature competition, circus acts at their very core are non-competitive while still fostering the benefits of physical challenges. While learning to juggle, discovering shapes on a low trapeze, helping each other cross a tight wire, and building group pyramids that finish is a ‘ta da’ flourish, youth gain dexterity, learn to communicate as they climb each other, get to name a trapeze skill after themselves, and celebrate together when they succeed.

Serenity Smith Forchion is co-founder of the New England Center for Circus Arts and explains that, “no one is trying to beat someone else, and the creative variability of circus allows adjustments for each individual who comes through our doors.  So you’re not bendy? We’ve got non-bendy skills for you. So you are bendy? We’ve got ways to show off your flexibility. Not sure about heights? Stay close to the ground in tumbling, juggling, partner balancing. Love the thrill of a pushing yourself higher?  Well, swing around over the flying trapeze net and enjoy the view!”

Forchion shared that at least three summer Olympians were children of artists who performed with her on Cirque du Soleil, so “there is a possible correlation for future studies to consider between success in the circus and success in the Olympics!”

For now, the opportunity to join the circus may just be down the street – bring yourself, bring your kids, bring your friends and find friends there.

Options at the New England Center for Circus Arts start at age 1 ½ for Tots, youth & teens, plus adult classes through Silver Circus (for 60+) so you can choose your own adventure. Join the Circus today!  www.circusschool.org / +1-(802) 254-9780

Main image: Courtesy of New England Center for Circus Arts

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