If you've ever gazed in awe at a trapeze artist somersaulting through the air high above the ground, or watched full of fear through gaps in your fingers as a blindfolded knife thrower hurls his pointy objects towards a somewhat nervous individual standing anxiously in front of a board, then you might be interested to know that you could have a go yourself. Think of the personal challenge!
Circus Space, located in Hoxton in east London, is all about bringing to a wider audience the art of circus performance, getting people involved (newcomers and experienced artists alike), and above all, having an enjoyable time in the process.
Circus Space has been on the up and up since its inception back in 1994, and today is home to the UK's very best circus training and production facilities, as well as being regarded as one of the top three circus schools in the whole of Europe.
They even have a hand in running the country's sole circus-related degree course: Circus Arts - BA Hons.
The organisers are enormously proud of the venue too, a 19th century former power station, with its cavernous space perfectly suited to the school's needs.
There are learning opportunities available for all ages, providing you with a chance to pick up some new skills and meet new people.
Circus Space offers what they call
Experience Days, where you can try tightwire walking, the flying trapeze, and the unicycle, among others.
You could also try your hand at whip cracking, lassoing, and knife throwing – taught by experts, naturally. Half-day events are available too.
For those aged between 8 and 16, half-day courses are offered. These involve the flying trapeze, diabolo, tightwire walking, and static trapeze.
If an Experience Day leaves you wanting more, you could also consider taking one of
Circus Space's courses, which take place over several months.
These practical lessons specialise in particular circus skills (eg. flying trapeze, static trapeze, aerial hoop technique, rope technique etc), leaving you, by the end, confident and competent in your chosen discipline.
They even have a
Tiny Tops course on Sunday mornings for kids as young as 2 years and 9 months (up to 7yrs) where parents and children can play circus-related games together and improve skills such as hand eye coordination.
If you ever feel like pushing yourself to new heights and are searching for a new challenge, Circus Space could be just the place.
