Tatyana is on the set of Black Girl Magic doing ambient hammock!

Click to go directly to section news!

AYCO Youth Membership costs $35 per year and is for anyone 21 and under and college students who are passionate about circus arts. This is your chance to plug into the national circus community, network and show off  your circus pride.

Membership benefits include:

• Surprise swag mailed to your door three times a year
• Eligibility to perform in AYCO event showcases
• Discounts on events and merchandise
• Monthly email AYCOgram newsletter filled with circus opportunities, news, and videos just for you!

Want to join? Grab an adult and click the button below!

Did you know you can connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. You’ll get engaging circus content and our favorite shares from our members. 

Be sure to tag us using #AmericanYouthCircusOrganization and use our new hashtags: #WeCircusBetterTogether and #TheFutureIsCircus (You can follow these hashtags too!)

We are so excited for our first in-person national youth circus festival since before the pandemic, Hosted by SANCA (School of Acrobatics and New Circus Arts). It’s four days packed with circus workshops, activities, and community showcases, bringing together youth from all over the country. Space will be limited, so add it to your calendar and make your plans to register now!

When: Thursday August 24 – Sunday Aug 27th
Where: Seattle, WA

More details coming soon!

Exciting news! We just added a new discount to your membership perks! Our friends at Modern Vaudeville Press are delighted to offer 15% off AYCO/ACE members’ total order on books, swag, and more! Yes, circus books for circus people! (Printify products excluded.) Not an AYCO member yet? Now’s a great time to join!

New year, new HUP Squad team and we’re excited for you to meet them! Anneliese, Aodhan, Daisy, Emily, Emma, Laci, Lyra, Olympia, Sylvia, Thayer, T’Kai are the 11 circus obsessed teens that will be bringing you exclusive interviews, reviews of circus shows, circus history, and more!

Vertical Dance Workshop.  January 27-29, 2023.  Brattleboro, VT. Nimble Arts is offering a unique workshop where we dance on the walls and change the rules of gravity!  Hosted by NECCA. Learn more at: http://nimblearts.org/upcomingworkshop/

Trenton Circus Squad is seeking performers ages 18-26 for their 2023 Big Top Jersey Tour. This is an amazing opportunity to perform in a big top tent and work with youth from across the country! The tour will bring circus shows and workshops across New Jersey from June 26-July 30, 2023. Performers will be paid, and housing and food will be provided. Preference will be given to applicants with social circus backgrounds. Applications are open through February 1, 2023 – click here for full details and to apply! Please contact tom@trentoncircussquad.org

with any questions.

Frequent Flyers® Aerial Dance Professional Training Program is now accepting applications for our August 2023 – May 2024 program! Jumpstart your aerial career with 9 months of professional training in beautiful Boulder, Colorado. 
 
Early Decision Application Deadline: February 1, 2023. Learn More & Apply Here.

The BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest (BCAM) is producing a Black History Month Circus Cabaret in Chicago on February 18, 2023, in partnership with Aloft Circus Arts. BCAM received act submissions from BIPOC performers all over the nation looking to participate in this event!

Interested in supporting BCAM and BIPOC circus artists? BCAM is accepting donations to help fund this show. Donate via PayPal at bipoccircusalliance@gmail.com

About BCAM

BCAM is a collective of circus practitioners and performing artists dedicated to creating more supportive, inclusive, and representative circus communities by:

1) Advocating for equity and inclusion in training, teaching, and performance spaces

2) Partnering with circus organizations to implement policy changes designed to increase BIPOC representation and inclusion within customers/students and staff

3) Celebrating and amplifying BIPOC stories in circus

Follow BCAM on Instagram at @bipoc_circusalliancemidwest

If you are a Person Of Color and a circus practitioner, you can request to join BCAM’s Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/BIPOCCircusAllianceMidwest

A Celebration of Black people in the American Circus

San Francisco, CA – The Uncle Junior Project is proud to present its Entrapment to Entertainment exhibition, on display for the first time in a decade at the African American Art and Culture Complex from February 10 to June 30.

Entrapment to Entertainment is a powerful exposé and celebration of the history of Black people in the American Circus. The exhibition features original costumes, archival film, powerful still images and contemporary art by acclaimed Bay Area contemporary artists. 
Curated by Uncle Junior Project founder Veronica Blair, this exhibition will profile performers of African descent, including Emanuel “Junior” Ruffin, Bernice Collins, King Charles Unicycle Troupe, Vanessa Thomas-Smith, and Satin, the first Black female aerial act of Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The retrospective captures these artists’ essence in four acts: Beginnings, Inspiration, Narrative, and Experience. 

When: Friday, February 10, 2023 – Friday, June 30, 2023
Where: African-American Art and Culture Complex 762 Fulton St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Admission: Free

Get your tickets at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ujp-presents-entrapment-to-entertainment-tickets-520205918907

 
www.UncleJrProject.com

 IG: @unclejrproject

March 17, 8:00 AM – March 19, 5:00 PM
Chicago, Illinois
USA Wheel Gymnastics
National Trials for Cyr Wheel and Gym Wheel
 
Wheel weekend is a retreat experience that features fun activities and clinics for everyone who wants to improve their wheel skills. Wheel Weekend is a unique opportunity for every Cyr or Gym Wheel participant interested in training with the best coaches in the world. Whether ones focus is performance, competition, physical fitness, or merely FUN, this workshop is where you can find it! Every Wheel Weekend coach loves the sport and wants to help ignite passion in everyone, so they can achieve new heights while meeting and exceeding their hopes and dreams for Cyr and Gym Wheel. Wheel Weekend’s focus is helping each participant achieve a deeper understanding and knowledge of the wheel, whether a beginner or a professional
 
Coaches:
Wolfgang Bientzle, Julia Pohling, Cheyenne Reifensteiner, Nadine Muenster, & Paul Perreault
 
More information can be found at: www.usawheelgymnastics.com/wheel-weekends

Registration: https://thecirquesexperience.regfox.com/2023-chicago-march-wheel-weekend

Schedule of Events: https://www.dropbox.com/s/kzgh0aowunr5zlv/Schedules%20March%2017.pdf?dl=0

Master Instructors Jim Donak and Kerri Kresinski are teaming up to offer an amazing week of playful and challenging skill-development. The goal of this retreat is to have fun and learn to train in safe sustainable ways that maximize results. It is for all who enjoy exploring and expanding their movement potential and understanding of progression creation.

It is open to all skill levels, and both students and instructors are encouraged to attend. Instruction will be customized to appropriately match the individual. Attendees will have their choice of aerial and/or ground focused skill development. You will grow beyond your physical limitations through fun, creative challenges that safely nurture mindful integration of strength, flexibility, and stability 
 
When: April 23-30 2023. Early bird rates and discounts available, please inquire.

Where: Sweet Retreats, Puerto Escondido Mexico
 
Visit website for more information. Email: jim@divingbuddah.com with any questions.

Pitch Catch Circus is thrilled to offer its 8th annual Spring Acro Intensive in Asheville, NC, taught by internationally renowned partner acro coaches including Niko Douwes, Christine Moonbeam, Blox Acrobatics. We offer 3 concurrent tracks for intermediate, advanced, and pro track students. Students are encouraged to attend the full 5 weeks, but may attend as little as 2 weeks.
 
The 30-hr per week program focuses on standing acrobatics including hand to hand, group acro, and adagio as well as optional Icarian modules. Partner acrobatics training is rounded out by instruction in tumbling, handstands, flexibility, & pre-hab. Students also receive a minimum of 30 minutes per week in private instruction. Classes run 8am – 3:45pm, Monday – Friday.
 
To make the program as accessible as possible, we offer sliding scale tuition, fellowships for black, brown, Native and trans students, and work trade options. For more info or to apply www.pitchcatchcircus.com/apply.

Smirkus Campers develop new ways to challenge themselves on the ground and in the air, learn skills like problem-solving, and how to work with others both in and out of the ring. Smirkus Camp is the place to clown around, have the time of your life, and make lasting friendships with campers from all over the US. This summer, Circus Smirkus is offering the following sessions at Smirkus Camp, including placement-based camps that require a video submission, as marked with ★ below. Get more information and sign up at www.smirkus.org/camp-sessions

 
NEW! Smirkling Overnight | August 13-14 | Ages 5-11
All Levels Circus Camp | 1 week | June 18-June 23 | Ages 8-16
All Levels Circus Camp | 2 weeks | June 25-July 7 | Ages 8-16
Intermediate Camp | 2 weeks | July 9-21 | Ages 12-18
Intermediate Skills Intensive ★ | 2 weeks | July 9-21 | Ages 12-18
Advanced Ensemble ★ | 3 weeks | July 23-August 11 | Ages 12-18
Advanced Individual Acts ★ | 3 weeks | July 23-August 11 | Ages 12-18
Road Show ★ | 5 weeks | July 9-August 11 | Ages 12-18
Fall Family & Friends Weekend | September 1-3 | Ages 5-Adult

Come to NECCA in Brattleboro, VT for a day or stay for a few months! We have programming that fits all of your circus goals. Click the links below to learn more:
 
WEEKEND IMMERSIONS: https://necenterforcircusarts.asapconnected.com/#CourseGroupID=37955

Jan. 27-29 | Vertical Dance
Feb. 3-5 | Creative Handbalancing
Feb. 24-26 | Tight Wire
March 17-19 | Low-Flying Trapeze
April 15-16 | Sneaky Pathways on Aerial Fabric
May 27-28 | Contortion
July 8-9 | Lyra Creative Exploration
July 28-30 | Straps
Aug. 12-13 | Lyra
 
WORKSHOPS:

https://necenterforcircusarts.asapconnected.com/#CourseGroupID=37960

Feb. 17-18, March 24-25, April 28-29, May 26-27 | Flying Trapeze Workshops
Feb. 25-26 | Aerial Rings Workshops
May 6 | Partner Acrobatic Dance Workshops
May 26 | Advancing Your Flexibility
Year Round | Create Your Own Training
 
TEACHER TRAININGS: https://necenterforcircusarts.asapconnected.com/#CourseGroupID=37958

Feb. 17-19 | Aerial Teacher Symposium
May 19-21 | Aerial Fabric Continuing Ed
June 20-24 | Intro to Teaching Aerials 
July 10-14 | Lyra Teacher Training
 
MEETINGS: https://necenterforcircusarts.asapconnected.com/#CourseGroupID=59142

April 20-23 | Bar Apparatus
June 8-11 | Rope
July 21-23 | Fabric Arts
 
GOING PRO VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS: https://necenterforcircusarts.asapconnected.com/#CourseGroupID=58993

Jan. 25 | Finding and Using Music
Feb. 20 | Demo Reels and Act Videos
March 22 | What’s in your Rigging Bag? 
April 10 | Being Prepared Before You Step Into the Ring
 
SUMMER TRAINING: https://necenterforcircusarts.asapconnected.com/#CourseGroupID=59143

June 10 – July 15 | Summer Intensive A
June 12-16 | Aerial & Circus Skills Retreat A
July 16 – Aug. 20 | Summer Intensive B
July 17 – Aug. 4 | Performance Boot Camp
Aug. 21-25 | Aerial & Circus Skills Retreat B

How to Play: This is a freeze tag game! One player is it and tags other players to freeze them. When players are tagged, they lay down on their back frozen as a hot dog. To unfreeze other players must “bun” the frozen “hot dog” – two unfreezers must enter into a plank position on either side of the hot dog! 

Circus Harmony invites you to check out:

• Circus Harmony’s 30 second 2022 Recap video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CmwSsUEuSOG/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
  
  
• Circus Harmony alum, Kellin Quinn’s, Rue Barre 3 minute show reel with his Doop partner Daniel Saulnier: https://youtu.be/IPwnuTvcgvw
  
  
• Guilhem Cachois’ Tapis Rouge 66 minute podcast episode featuring Circus Harmony alumni and wrestling super star, Sidney Iking Bateman: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0JeWBcWYPuKbFvh9Ur4z4q

 
Also, if you are looking for a social circus internship or some personalized pre-professional training, check us out at www.circusharmony.org and if you are near St Louis, register now for Circus Harmony Spring classes at City Museum that start January 30, 2023.

Canopy Studio receives a $10,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. This grant will support Canopy’s Outreach Program to continue to reach a wider audience and reflect the diversity of the Athens community-at-large, bringing the opportunity for personal enrichment through aerial arts to everyone regardless of age, ability, or socioeconomic status. In 2022 174 scholarships were awarded totaling more than $35,000 worth of support to our students for classes, private lessons, or 1:1 instruction within group classes.

Kirkos has a new page on the Circus Up website where you can find out about upcoming shows and other info! Kirkos is already booked for the Watertown Pride parade. Find out more about it HERE. Also- Circus Up is working closely with the Commonwealth Circus Center and other local circus orgs to provide more scholarships in the Boston area.  Check out our new program HERE.

Want to get discounts with these awesome Circus vendors? Discounts are just another awesome perk of being an ACE member.  Become a member today!

Like discounts like this? The more our members use them, the more leverage we have as an organization to encourage companies to provide discounts!

Interested in including your news or events relevant to the national circus community in AYCO/ACE’s newsletters? Send your submissions to communications@americanyouthcircus.org by the 2nd Friday of the month to be included in our monthly newsletter. Submissions should be no longer than 150 words, written in the third person, and include appropriate links and contact information if relevant. We cannot include PDFs or images, but we can link to them. Please also indicate if you would like your submission included in the AYCOgram (directed towards youth), ACE News (directed towards organizations and educators), or both.

Welcome!

PO Box 1123, Easthampton, MA 01027

We are a nonprofit 501(c)3

Support AYCO with a Donation

“Circus Harmony’s Sensational Sabrina hooping it up!”

Click to go directly to section news!

AYCO Youth Membership costs $35 per year and is for anyone 21 and under and college students who are passionate about circus arts. This is your chance to plug into the national circus community, network and show off  your circus pride.

Membership benefits include:

• Surprise swag mailed to your door three times a year
• Eligibility to perform in AYCO event showcases
• Discounts on events and merchandise
• Monthly email AYCOgram newsletter filled with circus opportunities, news, and videos just for you!

Want to join? Grab an adult and click the button below!

Thanks for reading the last AYCOgram of 2022. It’s been an amazing year and we are thankful that you were a part of it. The AYCO family wishes you a safe and happy holiday and Happy New Year! 

Did you know you can connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. You’ll get engaging circus content and our favorite shares from our members. 

Be sure to tag us using #AmericanYouthCircusOrganization and use our new hashtags: #WeCircusBetterTogether and #TheFutureIsCircus (You can follow these hashtags too!)

We are so excited for our first in-person national youth circus festival since before the pandemic, Hosted by SANCA (School of Acrobatics and New Circus Arts). It’s four days packed with circus workshops, activities, and community showcases, bringing together youth from all over the country. Space will be limited, so add it to your calendar and make your plans to register now!

When: Thursday August 24 – Sunday Aug 27th
Where: Seattle, WA

More details coming soon!

Love circus fashion? Grab some AYCO circus gear for yourself  from our online store PS they also make great holiday gifts for your favorite circus instructors!

Are you or do you know a circus obsessed teen who wants to join AYCO’s Hup Squad Youth Action Team? Applications are now open for our 2023 Hup Squad! Apply by January 1. 
 
The AYCO Hup Squad is a group of super cool, circus obsessed teens. The Squad designs and creates content such as reviews, interviews, and articles for the AYCO CircusIsMyLife blog and AYCOgrams, and advises on swag for youth members and AYCO’s social media presence. Hup Squad members receive special Hup Squad Swag, access to interview professional artists, and opportunities to see and review performances and events. Being on the Squad means you get both the prestige of being a national youth circus leader and a built-in peer community to support your developing leadership.

Take a read at our latest blog post! And be sure to share with a circus friend!  

AYCO BLOG: Aloft Circus Arts Sanctuary!
Once a month, my circus gym, Aloft Circus Arts, hosts an amazing circus cabaret show called Sanctuary. This past month was no exception! The October 22nd Sanctuary was a fabulous combination of Halloween-themed acts, including a vampire trapeze act, juggling poetry, a quick-change on the Spanish web, a fiery bird on the sling, and more! Continue Reading…

Yes Ma’am Circus is proud to announce the second Chicago Circus & Performing Arts Festival coming March 9-12, 2023 at the Den Theatre. Applications are now open for shows and acts. Priority is given to Chicago locals, but all are free to apply, and we welcome collaborations. All submissions are due by Dec 31st.  https://www.ccpaf.org/for-artists

The New England Center for Circus Arts presents the “Flying Coconut” streaming on demand Dec. 24 – Jan. 1! Inspired by “The Nutcracker,” our show veers off course when the opening party is crashed by pirates and an unforgettable evening of high-flying feats, acrobatics, and circus mayhem ensues! Enjoy our circus spin on a classic holiday show that’s fun for the whole family.
 
When: Dec. 24 – Jan. 1
 
Where: Online, streaming on demand
 
Cost: $15-50
 
Buy Tickets: https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/new-england-center-for-circus-arts/6382b622dc8b527b5ed9151c/tickets/63927cc11d55b50e4431d2b5

 
More info: https://necenterforcircusarts.org/about/the-flying-coconut-on-demand/

Vertical Dance Workshop.  January 27-29, 2023.  Brattleboro, VT. Nimble Arts is offering a unique workshop where we dance on the walls and change the rules of gravity!  Hosted by NECCA. Learn more at: http://nimblearts.org/upcomingworkshop/

The BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest (BCAM) is producing a Black History Month Circus Cabaret in Chicago on February 18, 2023, in partnership with Aloft Circus Arts. BCAM received act submissions from BIPOC performers all over the nation looking to participate in this event!

Interested in supporting BCAM and BIPOC circus artists? BCAM is accepting donations to help fund this show. Donate via PayPal at bipoccircusalliance@gmail.com

About BCAM

BCAM is a collective of circus practitioners and performing artists dedicated to creating more supportive, inclusive, and representative circus communities by:

1) Advocating for equity and inclusion in training, teaching, and performance spaces

2) Partnering with circus organizations to implement policy changes designed to increase BIPOC representation and inclusion within customers/students and staff

3) Celebrating and amplifying BIPOC stories in circus

Follow BCAM on Instagram at @bipoc_circusalliancemidwest

If you are a Person Of Color and a circus practitioner, you can request to join BCAM’s Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/BIPOCCircusAllianceMidwest

Frequent Flyers® Aerial Dance Professional Training Program is now accepting applications for our August 2023 – May 2024 program! Jumpstart your aerial career with 9 months of professional training in beautiful Boulder, Colorado. 
 
Early Decision Application Deadline: February 1, 2023. Learn More & Apply Here.

Wheel Weekend, March 17-19 in Chicago, IL, is a retreat experience featuring fun activities and clinics for everyone and anyone who wants to improve their wheel skills. This is a unique opportunity for every CYR or gym wheel participant interested in training with the best coaches in the world. Whether your focus is performance, competition, physical fitness or simply fun, this workshop is for you! Participants of all levels are welcome and we hope to see you there! 

Website: https://www.usawheelgymnastics.com/wheel-weekends

Registration: https://thecirquesexperience.regfox.com/2023-chicago-march-wheel-weekend

Schedule of Events: https://www.dropbox.com/s/kzgh0aowunr5zlv/Schedules%20March%2017.pdf?dl=0

Master Instructors Jim Donak and Kerri Kresinski are teaming up to offer an amazing week of playful and challenging skill-development. The goal of this retreat is to have fun and learn to train in safe sustainable ways that maximize results. It is for all who enjoy exploring and expanding their movement potential and understanding of progression creation.

It is open to all skill levels, and both students and instructors are encouraged to attend. Instruction will be customized to appropriately match the individual. Attendees will have their choice of aerial and/or ground focused skill development. You will grow beyond your physical limitations through fun, creative challenges that safely nurture mindful integration of strength, flexibility, and stability 
 
When: April 23-30 2023. Early bird rates and discounts available, please inquire.

Where: Sweet Retreats, Puerto Escondido Mexico
 
Visit website for more information. Email: jim@divingbuddah.com with any questions.

Circus Smirkus Camp Registration is OPEN!
Smirkus Campers develop new ways to challenge themselves on the ground and in the air, learn skills like problem-solving, and how to work with others both in and out of the ring. Smirkus Camp is the place to clown around, have the time of your life, and make lasting friendships with campers from all over the US. It is a magical summer of life changing circus adventure. This summer, Circus Smirkus is offering the following sessions at Smirkus Camp, including placement-based camps that require a video submission, as marked with ★ below. Get more information and sign up at www.smirkus.org/camp-sessions/

 
Smirkling for a Day | June 17 | Ages 5-11 
All Levels Circus Camp | 1 week | June 18-June 23 | Ages 8-16 
All Levels Circus Camp | 2 weeks | June 25-July 7 | Ages 8-16 
Intermediate Camp | 2 weeks | July 9-21 | Ages 12-18
Intermediate Skills Intensive ★ | 2 weeks | July 9-21 | Ages 12-18
Advanced Ensemble ★ | 3 weeks | July 23-August 11 | Ages 12-18 
Advanced Individual Acts ★ | 3 weeks | July 23-August 11 | Ages 12-18 
Road Show ★ | 5 weeks | July 9-August 11 | Ages 12-18 
Fall Family & Friends Weekend | September 1-3 | Ages 5-Adult

Are You, Your Students or Your Kiddos Getting Ready to Audition for Circus Schools This Year? CSAW is Here to Help!
 
CSAW – Connecting Circus Students Around the World has released their 2022 Circus School Application Deadline Mastersheet! Click here: https://bit.ly/csawcircusschoolsheet

 
This spreadsheet includes: 
• Circus schools
• Links to applications
• Application deadlines
• Audition dates
• The CSAW Ambassador for the school 
• How to contact that ambassador! 
• What is a CSAW Ambassador? 
 
A CSAW Ambassador is a current student of their international circus school. They are here to support you through applying, auditioning and attending circus school. If you have a question about a school just send the Ambassador an email or a DM and get an honest answer from a student of that school asap!
 
There are currently 16 CSAW Ambassadors to help future circus generations. You can find all of the current CSAW Ambassadors by clicking here: https://www.csawcircus.org/ambassadors

How to Play: The Coach directs students to line up on one side of the playing area and explains the following script: “When I say ‘Where are you?’ you (students) answer ‘HERE!!’ I say ‘Where do you want to be?’ you (students) point across the room/field/auditorium/stage and reply “THERE!” Then I will give a prompt – “From Here to There like a…… ” and use your imagination to cross with the prompt!” Game repeats from one side of the play area to the other. 
 
This game can use broad or specific prompts – horse, old person, zombie, your favorite pet just died, a person robbing a bank, the richest person alive…. Use your imagination! Have students cross like – the color yellow, a sock that lost its match in the drying machine, half unicorn half Godzilla, a thunderstorm……. Ask the students for input or you can encourage a student to lead the exercise!

Want to get discounts with these awesome Circus vendors? Discounts are just another awesome perk of being an ACE member.  Become a member today!

Like discounts like this? The more our members use them, the more leverage we have as an organization to encourage companies to provide discounts!

Interested in including your news or events relevant to the national circus community in AYCO/ACE’s newsletters? Send your submissions to communications@americanyouthcircus.org by the 2nd Friday of the month to be included in our monthly newsletter. Submissions should be no longer than 150 words, written in the third person, and include appropriate links and contact information if relevant. We cannot include PDFs or images, but we can link to them. Please also indicate if you would like your submission included in the AYCOgram (directed towards youth), ACE News (directed towards organizations and educators), or both.

Welcome!

PO Box 1123, Easthampton, MA 01027

We are a nonprofit 501(c)3

Support AYCO with a Donation

This is Emily Fulton, a 16-year-old hand balancer and aerialist from New Hampshire. Emily is on the AYCO Hup Squad and dreams of one day attending professional circus school before joining a contemporary circus company. This photo was taken during golden hour at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic Coast.

AYCO Monthly Newsletter
AYCO Youth Membership costs $35 per year and is for anyone 21 and under and college students who are passionate about circus arts. This is your chance to plug into the national circus community, network and show off  your circus pride.

Membership benefits include:

• Surprise swag mailed to your door three times a year
• Eligibility to perform in AYCO event showcases
• Discounts on events and merchandise
• Monthly email AYCOgram newsletter filled with circus opportunities, news, and videos just for you!
• Want to join? Grab an adult and click the button below!

Click to go directly to section news!

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. You’ll get engaging circus content and our favorite shares from our members. 

Be sure to tag us using #AmericanYouthCircusOrganization and use our new hashtags: #WeCircusBetterTogether and #TheFutureIsCircus (You can follow these hashtags too!)

Mark your calendar for Tuesday, November 19th – Giving Tuesday! Look out for our Facebook fundraiser and contribute to help us meet our goal and unlock a matching donation! Circus arts education promotes healthy mental, physical, and emotional youth development. AYCO/ACE helps make this work possible by providing vital community networking, discussions, and events for circus educators as well as important resources and support for circus schools and organizations!
 
This year during Giving Tuesday we’ll also be thinking about everything we’re grateful for – help us to spread the appreciation vibes!

• Step One: Tag someone in your circus community that you’re grateful for!
• Step Two: Use the hashtag #CircusGratitude
• Step Three (optional): Donate to our fundraiser – we’ll be extra grateful

Thank you – we’re grateful for you, our circus community!

Show off your circus and get your AYCO gear from our online store. PS they also make great holiday gifts for your favorite circus instructors!

Are you or do you know a circus obsessed teen who wants to join AYCO’s Hup Squad Youth Action Team? Applications are now open for our 2023 Hup Squad! Apply by January 1. 
 
The AYCO Hup Squad is a group of super cool, circus obsessed teens. The Squad designs and creates content such as reviews, interviews, and articles for the AYCO CircusIsMyLife blog and AYCOgrams, and advises on swag for youth members and AYCO’s social media presence. Hup Squad members receive special Hup Squad Swag, access to interview professional artists, and opportunities to see and review performances and events. Being on the Squad means you get both the prestige of being a national youth circus leader and a built-in peer community to support your developing leadership.

Take a read at our latest blog post! And be sure to share with a circus friend!  

The ACE Educators Conference 2022: A Personal Review
In October of 2022, Guest Writer Stacy Gubar had the incredible honor of attending the American Circus Educators EdCon. The event itself was an experience like no other, but even more exciting was seeing ideas manifest to reality. Continue Reading…

The Importance of Warm Up

IAs circus performers, we love learning new tricks, impressive feats, and pushing ourselves to do hard things. It’s tempting to jump right into a training session, and not “waste time” with a warm up or cool down but in actuality this will do way more harm in the long run than good. You’ll get more out of your training if you prepare your body for the training, and protect it from injury so that you can continue to train. Continue Reading…

The Importance of Assistance

Hup Squader Annika Egerstedt recently graduated from high school and moved from Atlanta to Las Vegas to attend college. She shares her experience of moving, stepping outside of her comfort zone and how important her support system is. Continue Reading…

Circus Harmony will be offering circus Holiday Camps in December and Circus Sampler Classes during January, in their downtown St Louis, City Museum ring. They started filming for their second Architecture and Acrobats project. This one is at Fort Belle Fontaine, along the Missouri River. See clips on their social media. 

Ring in the New Year with NECCA! Book private lessons over your holiday break and create your own circus training program. Train in our custom built Trapezium (with heated floors!) then head out to the winter wonderland of Vermont for skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing, or just cozy up to a warm fire with a cup of hot chocolate. Treat yourself to the circus training you’ve been dreaming of and level up with our world renowned coaches!
 
WHEN: Dec. 2022 – Jan. 2023.
Book soon to lock in 2022 pricing – any lessons booked before Jan. 1, 2023 receive 2022 rates for you and your friends!
 
WHERE: 10 Town Crier Dr.
Brattleboro, VT 05301
 
BOOK by filling out this form.
 
PRIVATE LESSON INFO: https://necenterforcircusarts.org/training/private-lessons/
 
LODGING/TRANSPORTATION INFO: https://necenterforcircusarts.org/contact/visit-necca/

VIVA Fest is excited to announce that registration for the 2023 festival is now open! Early registrants will receive a free ticket to the World Circus Arts Championships, which will be held in conjunction with VIVA Fest. This is a great opportunity to see some of the world’s best circus performers compete, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of this offer. Early registration ends November 30th, so don’t delay! Register today and join us for an unforgettable experience.
 
https://www.thevivafest.com

Are You, Your Students or Your Kiddos Getting Ready to Audition for Circus Schools This Year? CSAW is Here to Help!
 
CSAW – Connecting Circus Students Around the World has released their 2022 Circus School Application Deadline Mastersheet! Click here: https://bit.ly/csawcircusschoolsheet
 
This spreadsheet includes:
• Circus schools
• Links to applications
• Application deadlines
• Audition dates
• The CSAW Ambassador for the school 
• How to contact that ambassador! 
• What is a CSAW Ambassador? 
 
A CSAW Ambassador is a current student of their international circus school. They are here to support you through applying, auditioning and attending circus school. If you have a question about a school just send the Ambassador an email or a DM and get an honest answer from a student of that school asap!
 
There are currently 16 CSAW Ambassadors to help future circus generations. You can find all of the current CSAW Ambassadors by clicking here: https://www.csawcircus.org/ambassadors

Circus Up’s community troupe, Kirkos, has performed 11 shows at festivals and community events throughout the greater Boston area in 2022. Some of these have included the Wake Up the Earth Festival, Fenway Porchfest, and the Commonwealth Circus Center student shows. Check out their latest performance at the Circus Up Benefit here! 

Materials: None

How to Play: This game can be played with or without an audience, though I find it works better with an audience. Set up an “offstage” area on either side of the playing space. Let the group on stage know the rules. 
1. The goal is to cross the space 
2. You may not stop on stage 
3. The stage can never be empty. 

Encourage them to try as many different ways to cross as possible while also letting them know it’s okay to just walk as well as to copy others if they see something they like. The facilitator calls the stop/start of the game – as well as if the stage is empty. As the students at the end – what was interesting, what was funny, what did they see that they liked?
 
If you like this game, be sure to check out our Games Book! You can purchase directly from the AYCO/ACE store, on Amazon (print and eBook available), or as an eBook from a variety of vendors! Don’t miss your chance to have this great teaching tool! 

Got a game you’d love to share? Reply to this email and tell us about it!

Want to get discounts with these awesome Circus vendors? Discounts are just another awesome perk of being an ACE member.  Become a member today!

Like discounts like this? The more our members use them, the more leverage we have as an organization to encourage companies to provide discounts!

Interested in including your news or events relevant to the national circus community in AYCO/ACE’s newsletters? Send your submissions to communications@americanyouthcircus.org by the 2nd Friday of the month to be included in our monthly newsletter. Submissions should be no longer than 150 words, written in the third person, and include appropriate links and contact information if relevant. We cannot include PDFs or images, but we can link to them. Please also indicate if you would like your submission included in the AYCOgram (directed towards youth), ACE News (directed towards organizations and educators), or both.

Welcome!

PO Box 1123, Easthampton, MA 01027

We are a nonprofit 501(c)3

Support AYCO with a Donation

In this picture, Adelyn is showing off her aerial splits in silks during the “Kids Night In” event hosted by Brande Morrow of Aerial Spirit at Virginia Beach Aerial Arts Collective. @aerialspiritdance @vbaerialartscollective

Click to go directly to section news!

AYCO Youth Membership costs $35 per year and is for anyone 21 and under and college students who are passionate about circus arts. This is your chance to plug into the national circus community, network and show off  your circus pride.

Membership benefits include:

• Surprise swag mailed to your door three times a year
• Eligibility to perform in AYCO event showcases
• Discounts on events and merchandise
• Monthly email AYCOgram newsletter filled with circus opportunities, news, and videos just for you!

Want to join? Grab an adult and click the button below!

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. You’ll get engaging circus content and our favorite shares from our members. 

Be sure to tag us using #AmericanYouthCircusOrganization and use our new hashtags: #WeCircusBetterTogether and #TheFutureIsCircus (You can follow these hashtags too!)

Mark your calendar for Tuesday, November 19th – Giving Tuesday! Look out for our Facebook fundraiser and contribute to help us meet our goal and unlock a matching donation! Circus arts education promotes healthy mental, physical, and emotional youth development. AYCO/ACE helps make this work possible by providing vital community networking, discussions, and events for circus educators as well as important resources and support for circus schools and organizations!
 
This year during Giving Tuesday we’ll also be thinking about everything we’re grateful for – help us to spread the appreciation vibes!

• Step One: Tag someone in your circus community that you’re grateful for!
• Step Two: Use the hashtag #CircusGratitude
• Step Three (optional): Donate to our fundraiser – we’ll be extra grateful

Show off your circus and get your AYCO gear from our online store. PS they also make great holiday gifts for your favorite circus instructors!

Take a read at our latest blog post! And be sure to share with a circus friend!  

Improving Through Injuries

Injuries are common for athletes. Our bodies get tired from excessive use. And when an injury happens, it’s difficult to continue training and maintain strength as the injury heals. Continue Reading…

The New England Center for Circus Arts’ Virtual Alumni Showcase brings together dazzling performers gracing the cyber stage from across the globe for a high-flying online event featuring graduates of NECCA. The artists will live emcee each other’s pre-recorded circus acts sharing stories of their journey from NECCA to the world stage followed by a real time Q&A for direct audience interaction. Meet your favorite NECCA performers and raise funds for outreach and programing at NECCA.
 
WHEN: Sat, Nov. 12 at 7:00 pm EST
 
WHERE: Online
 
PRICING: $15 single viewer
| $25 multiple viewers on 1 device
| $50 Supporter Ticket (donations accepted)
 
BUY TICKETS: https://our.show/alumni2022

MORE INFO: https://necenterforcircusarts.org/about/alumni-showcase

VIVA Fest is excited to announce that registration for the 2023 festival is now open! Early registrants will receive a free ticket to the World Circus Arts Championships, which will be held in conjunction with VIVA Fest. This is a great opportunity to see some of the world’s best circus performers compete, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of this offer. Early registration ends November 30th, so don’t delay! Register today and join us for an unforgettable experience.
 
https://www.thevivafest.com

The THIRD ANNUAL CSAW Fundraiser is Here! Can you help CSAW raise $25,000 to continue providing grants for US Circus Artists of Color?
 
This year CSAW is raising $25K in order to:

Offer yet ANOTHER year of $1K microgrants to US Circus Artists of Color
Continue to provide resources for circus artists around the world
AND Ensure the sustainability of our organization by paying our staff for their work!
CSAW is a non-profit circus organization that works to increase accessibility of information and funding for circus artists of all backgrounds. By October 1st 2022, CSAW will have awarded $41,500 in grant funding to 30 different US Circus Artists of Color. Can you help them continue to provide these resources for BIPOC artists? CSAW is committed to continuing to take action against racism and they hope you will join them in these efforts.
 
CSAW will be raising $25,000 again this year to fund our Microgrant Program and to support more grant programming in 2023!  All grant awardees are chosen by paid selection committees composed entirely of established circus artists of color.
 
To date, more than 250 U.S. circus artists of color have applied for CSAW grants. CSAW knows that these long-term, sustainable, programs are crucial to our community. They need your help to continue them. Donate and learn more at: https://igg.me/at/csawgrants2022

The 10th Annual West Coast Aerial Arts Festival (WCAAF) is open for registration!
 
November 10 – 13, 2022
Aerial Dance Theater, Costa Mesa, California
Competition Dates: November 11 & 12, 2022
 
This aerial competition features categories ranging from 7-year-olds to seniors, novice to professional, various apparatuses, and group entries. Competitors receive participation medals, judges’ feedback, and swag bags. The premium competition package includes an audience ticket and free workshop taught by established educators. Top three winners receive cash prizes, a trophy or medal, social media exposure, and the opportunity to perform their winning piece in the award ceremony. Best of all, participants get to make new friends, choreograph pieces with fellow aerialists, and visit Southern California attractions like Disneyland and Hollywood!
 
Celebrating a decade of festivities, WCAAF provides community and competition that nurtures and inspires professional and non-professional aerialists. To learn more: www.westcoastaerialartsfestival.com.

Are You, Your Students or Your Kiddos Getting Ready to Audition for Circus Schools This Year? CSAW is Here to Help!
 
CSAW – Connecting Circus Students Around the World has released their 2022 Circus School Application Deadline Mastersheet! Click here: https://bit.ly/csawcircusschoolsheet
 
This spreadsheet includes:
• Circus schools
• Links to applications
• Application deadlines
• Audition dates
• The CSAW Ambassador for the school 
• How to contact that ambassador! 
• What is a CSAW Ambassador? 
 
A CSAW Ambassador is a current student of their international circus school. They are here to support you through applying, auditioning and attending circus school. If you have a question about a school just send the Ambassador an email or a DM and get an honest answer from a student of that school asap!
 
There are currently 16 CSAW Ambassadors to help future circus generations. You can find all of the current CSAW Ambassadors by clicking here: https://www.csawcircus.org/ambassadors

If you like seeing the game of the month, then you’ll love the ACE Games Book! It’s packed with over 100 games for use in cooperative movement based settings, this is a must have for every circus school, teaching artist, and arts education program! (It also makes a great holiday gift – wink wink!)

Each game includes age, number of participants, and a number of tags including ice breaker, non-contact, and include special notes for working with a variety of populations that may require adaptation or modifications to each game.
 
You can purchase directly from the AYCO/ACE store, on Amazon (print and eBook available), or as an eBook from a variety of vendors! Don’t miss your chance to have this great teaching tool! 

Got a game you’d love to share? Reply to this email and tell us about it!

Want to get discounts with these awesome Circus vendors? Discounts are just another awesome perk of being an ACE member.  Become a member today!

Like discounts like this? The more our members use them, the more leverage we have as an organization to encourage companies to provide discounts!

Interested in including your news or events relevant to the national circus community in AYCO/ACE’s newsletters? Send your submissions to communications@americanyouthcircus.org by the 2nd Friday of the month to be included in our monthly newsletter. Submissions should be no longer than 150 words, written in the third person, and include appropriate links and contact information if relevant. We cannot include PDFs or images, but we can link to them. Please also indicate if you would like your submission included in the AYCOgram (directed towards youth), ACE News (directed towards organizations and educators), or both.

Welcome!

PO Box 1123, Easthampton, MA 01027

We are a nonprofit 501(c)3

Support AYCO with a Donation

Congratulations Briella! This action photo was taken with her coach @agus.afs at Vertical Fix in Tempe, Arizona. Briella defies all odds stacked against her with a spinal chord/nerve injury that paralyzed her arm at birth. This firecracker is working with synthetic nerves and works hard at strengthening so she can fulfill her dreams of being a part of Cirque du Soleil. 

Click to go directly to section news!

AYCO Youth Membership costs $35 per year and is for anyone 21 and under and college students who are passionate about circus arts. This is your chance to plug into the national circus community, network and show off  your circus pride.

Membership benefits include:

• Surprise swag mailed to your door three times a year
• Eligibility to perform in AYCO event showcases
• Discounts on events and merchandise
• Monthly email AYCOgram newsletter filled with circus opportunities, news, and videos just for you!

Want to join? Grab an adult and click the button below!

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. You’ll get engaging circus content and our favorite shares from our members. 

Be sure to tag us using #AmericanYouthCircusOrganization and use our new hashtags: #WeCircusBetterTogether and #TheFutureIsCircus (You can follow these hashtags too!)

Take a read at our latest blog post! And be sure to share with a circus friend!  

How the HUP Squaders spent their Summer!

Wow! The Hup Squad had a jam packed summer full of workshops, intensives, and more! Read on to find out more about all the different programs and places they traveled to Continue Reading…

Changing Your Mindset

Many of us in circus and sports communities in general struggle with feelings of self doubt and comparing ourselves with others. I found myself struggling with these feelings a lot this summer when I was in a circus intensive program. I’ve trained mainly in aerial, and I didn’t have the tumbling, dance, or hand balancing backgrounds that some of the other participants had. This led me, especially at the beginning, to have a lot of doubt about whether or not I deserved to be there and I worried  about my abilities. Continue Reading…

Join the American Circus Alliance for a two part virtual tent workshop! 

Part 1: Considerations before you buy a Circus Tent 

So you want to buy a circus tent?  Talk to the experts about what to consider before you buy. Also known as ‘don’t get surprised by all the incidentals’, budgeting for lots of stakes and sledge hammers, planning the initial set up, anticipating all the maintenance, etc.Led by Nat Brown – tent owner, and consultant for buyers and users.

When: September 19 (Monday), 12 – 1 pm Eastern

Part 2: Touring with a Tent aka Logistics

Before you buy a circus tent, understand the logistics of touring with it – trucks and trailers, permits, location scouting, seating, electricity, water, parking, and more. Led by Danny Rodriguez – Operations Director, UniverSoul Circus.

When: October 17 (Monday) 12 – 1 pm Eastern

Both are free for ACA members/ annual membership is only $25/year
Register at www.americancircusalliance.org

The THIRD ANNUAL CSAW Fundraiser is Here! Can you help CSAW raise $25,000 to continue providing grants for US Circus Artists of Color?
 
This year CSAW is raising $25K in order to:

Offer yet ANOTHER year of $1K microgrants to US Circus Artists of Color
Continue to provide resources for circus artists around the world
AND Ensure the sustainability of our organization by paying our staff for their work!
CSAW is a non-profit circus organization that works to increase accessibility of information and funding for circus artists of all backgrounds. By October 1st 2022, CSAW will have awarded $41,500 in grant funding to 30 different US Circus Artists of Color. Can you help them continue to provide these resources for BIPOC artists? CSAW is committed to continuing to take action against racism and they hope you will join them in these efforts.
 
CSAW will be raising $25,000 again this year to fund our Microgrant Program and to support more grant programming in 2023!  All grant awardees are chosen by paid selection committees composed entirely of established circus artists of color.
 
To date, more than 250 U.S. circus artists of color have applied for CSAW grants. CSAW knows that these long-term, sustainable, programs are crucial to our community. They need your help to continue them. Donate and learn more at: https://igg.me/at/csawgrants2022

Acting for Climate Scandinavia is thrilled to invite you to RIPPLES | THE SAILING CIRCUS PERFORMANCE which will be presented at Ofelia Plads, Copenhagen, in September 2022. 
 
The seed of Acting for Climate was planted in Norway in 2014, with a dream of using our profession as artists to inspire action for a sustainable future. Now, we are a company creating and touring our own performances, and a growing network of people, artists and activists that nurture collaboration for sustainability.
 
The sailing circus performance “Ripples” set sail across the Baltic sea to inspire people to act for a more sustainable future. Combining performing arts and environmental activism, we set sail for hope, for action and for change. Ripples will be played on decks, and high up in the rig and masts of the sail ship Swallow from 1926.
 
With extreme acrobatics all the way up to the top of the 20 meters high masts, the ship as stage, a world-class international team of artists, and a soundscape blending in voices of climate activists all around the world, Ripples is a one of a kind performance. We present a voyage into the future, into the hopes of a new generation who feels truly connected to nature and to what being an artist means. Artistic expression is a powerful tool to empower society, to embody ecological grief and hope for the future within the ship’s magnificent framework. 
“Ripples” reaches out to people and creates space to reflect. Join us!
 
The schedule can be found here: https://www.actingforclimate.com/ripples

You can now learn Pole and Rope Mallakhamb at your convenience from your space. 
 
Mallakhamb Federation USA (MFU) has created a Mallakhamb Marketplace ™ to support adoption of Mallakhamb globally. Top 5 features are:

• Learn Pole and Rope Mallakhamb in three stages – Recreational, Intermediate, and Advanced. Learn Pole and Rope Mallakhamb skills by categories – Mount, Dismount, Yoga, Intercepts and combinations. Videos are ~ 1 min.
• Collaboration with Mallakhamb enthusiasts. No fake users as user registration requires email and phone validation. 
• If you need more guidance contact us on mallakhambapp@gmail.com and we will allocate a coach to you for FREE.
• Rope and Pole Mallakhambs can be sourced through recommendations from Mallakhamb Federation USA (MFU).
• Learn history of Mallakhamb, apparatus required for learning, different forms of Mallakhamb, competitive Mallakhamb and many more.

Download the app now on iOS and Android.
 
For any suggestions, concerns please write an email to mallakhambapp@gmail.com.

The 10th Annual West Coast Aerial Arts Festival (WCAAF) is open for registration!
 
November 10 – 13, 2022
Aerial Dance Theater, Costa Mesa, California
Competition Dates: November 11 & 12, 2022
 
This aerial competition features categories ranging from 7-year-olds to seniors, novice to professional, various apparatuses, and group entries. Competitors receive participation medals, judges’ feedback, and swag bags. The premium competition package includes an audience ticket and free workshop taught by established educators. Top three winners receive cash prizes, a trophy or medal, social media exposure, and the opportunity to perform their winning piece in the award ceremony. Best of all, participants get to make new friends, choreograph pieces with fellow aerialists, and visit Southern California attractions like Disneyland and Hollywood!
 
Celebrating a decade of festivities, WCAAF provides community and competition that nurtures and inspires professional and non-professional aerialists. To learn more: www.westcoastaerialartsfestival.com.

Are You, Your Students or Your Kiddos Getting Ready to Audition for Circus Schools This Year? CSAW is Here to Help!
 
CSAW – Connecting Circus Students Around the World has released their 2022 Circus School Application Deadline Mastersheet! Click here: https://bit.ly/csawcircusschoolsheet
 
This spreadsheet includes:
• Circus schools
• Links to applications
• Application deadlines
• Audition dates
• The CSAW Ambassador for the school 
• How to contact that ambassador! 
• What is a CSAW Ambassador? 
 
A CSAW Ambassador is a current student of their international circus school. They are here to support you through applying, auditioning and attending circus school. If you have a question about a school just send the Ambassador an email or a DM and get an honest answer from a student of that school asap!
 
There are currently 16 CSAW Ambassadors to help future circus generations. You can find all of the current CSAW Ambassadors by clicking here: https://www.csawcircus.org/ambassadors

Circus Harmony previewed their Architecture and Acrobats program as the keynote at the Missouri History Museum’s Coloring STL exhibit about the architecture of St. Louis. Architecture and Acrobats tells the story of historically and architecturally significant sites in the St Louis through circus arts. 
 
For the American Circus Educators Conference, October 7-9, in Austin, Circus Harmony staff will be presenting workshops on Circus Class Infrastructure, Two Highs, and Academic/Circus Arts Integration plus serving as part of a Social Circus panel. Are you registered? https://www.americancircuseducators.org/edcon-2022/

Circus Up is proud to announce that their annual benefit will be on Saturday, October 15th. This year’s benefit will be at the beautiful Arts at the Armory in Somerville, MA and will feature an open bar, raffle, and a live performance. We will showcase our community troupe, Kirkos, as well as beloved local circus artists and dancers. This event is Circus Up’s major annual fundraiser and all funds raised from this event will go towards supporting their mission to use circus arts to overcome social barriers and build community with people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Purchase your ticket or donate here to show your support! 

Materials Needed: None!

How to play: Have everyone get into pairs. Explain to them that they are going to take
turns acting as the other’s mirror, trying to copy the movements of their
partner.
 
Level One:
Have the partners stand about 2 feet apart – tell them that there is a line exactly in the middle between the two of them, called their “center line.” Partner A will start. It’s partner B’s job to copy their every movement. It’s important to explain to the teams that:

• They must move slowly at first.
• The trick is to copy the movements at exactly the same time that they happen, exactly as they are observed.
• Try to have the partners always be equidistant from their center line.
• The partners are not allowed to touch.

Once partner A has had a chance to go for a few minutes, have the partners
switch roles.
 
Level Two:
Ask the partners to add more movement to their actions. Try mirroring each other as they move forward or backwards, use up and down levels, or move around in the room.

• Remind them that they must maintain their relationship to the center line at all times.

Level Three:
Tell them that this time, there is no specified leader. They have to try to be in sync with each other as they move, never fully knowing who is actually starting each movement.

Want to get discounts with these awesome Circus vendors? Discounts are just another awesome perk of being an ACE member.  Become a member today!

Like discounts like this? The more our members use them, the more leverage we have as an organization to encourage companies to provide discounts!

Interested in including your news or events relevant to the national circus community in AYCO/ACE’s newsletters? Send your submissions to communications@americanyouthcircus.org by the 2nd Friday of the month to be included in our monthly newsletter. Submissions should be no longer than 150 words, written in the third person, and include appropriate links and contact information if relevant. We cannot include PDFs or images, but we can link to them. Please also indicate if you would like your submission included in the AYCOgram (directed towards youth), ACE News (directed towards organizations and educators), or both.

Welcome!

PO Box 1123, Easthampton, MA 01027

We are a nonprofit 501(c)3

Support AYCO with a Donation

Congratulations to this amazing German wheel trio from Circus Academy Tucson. They are our August AYCO Photo Contest Winners! This amazing shot was captured during Circus Academy Tucson’s advanced circus camp as the trio were crafting together the perfect performance for the ‘Murder Mystery’ showcase! We hear it was a mysterious, humorous, and inspiring display of skills!

Click to go directly to section news!

AYCO Youth Membership costs $35 per year and is for anyone 21 and under and college students who are passionate about circus arts. This is your chance to plug into the national circus community, network and show off  your circus pride.

Membership benefits include:

• Surprise swag mailed to your door three times a year
• Eligibility to perform in AYCO event showcases
• Discounts on events and merchandise
• Monthly email AYCOgram newsletter filled with circus opportunities, news, and videos just for you!

Want to join? Grab an adult and click the button below!

We’re loving all of the follows and friend requests flooding our feed! If you haven’t done so already, connect with us on our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. You’ll get engaging circus content and our favorite shares from our members. 

Be sure to tag us using #AmericanYouthCircusOrganization and use our new hashtags: #WeCircusBetterTogether and #TheFutureIsCircus (You can follow these hashtags too!)

Hup Squad is throwing a virtual youth circus hang time and you’re invited!!

Come hang out with us! Meet, chat, play, and share your experiences with circus friends from around the country.  We’ll have breakout rooms for social stretching, games, and a general hangout space.

This event is *free* to all members and $0-10 for non members! 

Once you register for the event, you will receive an email with a Zoom link!

Take a read at our latest blog post! And be sure to share with a circus friend!  

 Postcard from NECCA

Hup Squad member, Daisy is sending you a virtual posted card from NECCA, in Vermont. Check it out! I have been training at NECCA for the past couple weeks for the Performance Boot Camp: a fantastic intensive where we each create and develop our own acts to perform in a show at the end! My experience has been so amazing, from training all day long (an absolute dream) to getting to explore the town of Brattleboro and all the fun things it has to offer (which includes goat yoga)! This program has been a fantastic chance to train seriously, to learn new skills, and to spend my summer away from home! Continue Reading

Training to Failure as An Aerialist Workshop – August 28th, 10:30 EST

Co-taught by Aaron Koz and Max March-Steinman, the When/Why To Train to Failure (TTF) workshop is intended to help you, as a student OR coach, understand the merits and RISKS of training to failure in different types of exercises. Gain an understanding of which exercise types are safer to failure-train and which may be more trouble than they’re worth. Learn a framework for implementing TTF effectively in your broader training structure and program to increase your strength gains while keeping injury risk low. Learn more and sign up here.

The 10th Annual West Coast Aerial Arts Festival (WCAAF) is open for registration!
 
November 10 – 13, 2022
Aerial Dance Theater, Costa Mesa, California
Competition Dates: November 11 & 12, 2022
 
This aerial competition features categories ranging from 7-year-olds to seniors, novice to professional, various apparatuses, and group entries. Competitors receive participation medals, judges’ feedback, and swag bags. The premium competition package includes an audience ticket and free workshop taught by established educators. Top three winners receive cash prizes, a trophy or medal, social media exposure, and the opportunity to perform their winning piece in the award ceremony. Best of all, participants get to make new friends, choreograph pieces with fellow aerialists, and visit Southern California attractions like Disneyland and Hollywood!
 
Celebrating a decade of festivities, WCAAF provides community and competition that nurtures and inspires professional and non-professional aerialists. To learn more: www.westcoastaerialartsfestival.com. Early Bird rate ends August 1, 2022.

For the fourth year in a row, WheelFest will take place. Wheel Fest is a chance to learn new skills, try new things, and meet new people. You’ll have the opportunity to work with a variety of circus coaches, professionals, and performers.
 
Workshops include flexibility and stretching, harness training, handstands, Cyr and Gym wheel, and more! Get a chance to learn how to flip and fly in Arcadia, IN at Ripfest https://www.ripfest.net/
 
There will also be a tournament with single, duo, and fun wheel competition.
 
Wheel Fest is a great opportunity you don’t want to miss. More information can be found at www.usawheelgymnastics.comThe focus is not only on training, but also on making new contacts and friendships.  

Are you curious? Take a look here: https://www.usawheelgymnastics.com/2021-wheelfest 
  
Location & date: 
August 17-20 in Chicago, Willye White Park (610 W Howard St, Chicago, IL 60626).  
August 20-21 in Arcadia IN at RIPFEST Diving (108 South Olive St, Arcadia, IN 46030). 
 
Do you have any questions? Contact Mearieta Clemente: mearieta@gmail.com  

Are You, Your Students or Your Kiddos Getting Ready to Audition for Circus Schools This Year? CSAW is Here to Help!
 
CSAW – Connecting Circus Students Around the World has released their 2022 Circus School Application Deadline Mastersheet! Click here: https://bit.ly/csawcircusschoolsheet
 
This spreadsheet includes:
• Circus schools
• Links to applications
• Application deadlines
• Audition dates
• The CSAW Ambassador for the school 
• How to contact that ambassador! 
• What is a CSAW Ambassador? 
 
A CSAW Ambassador is a current student of their international circus school. They are here to support you through applying, auditioning and attending circus school. If you have a question about a school just send the Ambassador an email or a DM and get an honest answer from a student of that school asap!
 
There are currently 16 CSAW Ambassadors to help future circus generations. You can find all of the current CSAW Ambassadors by clicking here: https://www.csawcircus.org/ambassadors

Diamond Family Circus is pleased to again be selected by the Massachusetts Housing Authority as its statewide social circus provider at public housing sites for low-income families, elders, and people with disabilities.  MassHousing’s TAP Resident Programs work to improve quality of life for public housing residents and help to maintain healthy housing communities by offering diverse on-site programs and workshops.

After a successful Summer filled with exciting programming such as CircEsteem’s annual Around Chicago Summer Tour and several sessions of Summer Camp at their Uptown location, CircEsteem welcomes and ushers in the changing season with its Fall programs. Registration for their well-known Homework & CircusWork program, which is situated in several elementary schools throughout Chicago, is currently open, along with Chicago Youth Circus (CYC) Saturday classes at their Uptown location. Registration for CYC’s new location at Humboldt Park Field House, will open soon. Current CircEsteem youths may be considered for Performance Troupe. Stay up-to-date on registration. 

CircEsteem is also proud to announce that they have purchased the building they reside in and will soon undergo an extensive remodel of their facility, starting January 2023. In addition to a new building, CircEsteem is always open to adding to their team. Come work with them.

Materials: None!

How to play: This is a tag game! There are two rolls: The Spider and the Flies. The Spider is “it” and can only move in a crab walk. Everybody else are Flies and can only move by hopping on one foot. Once the Spider tags a fly, the Fly also becomes a Spider until everyone is a Spider! 

Want to get discounts with these awesome Circus vendors? Discounts are just another awesome perk of being an ACE member.  Become a member today!

Like discounts like this? The more our members use them, the more leverage we have as an organization to encourage companies to provide discounts!

Interested in including your news or events relevant to the national circus community in AYCO/ACE’s newsletters? Send your submissions to communications@americanyouthcircus.org by the 2nd Friday of the month to be included in our monthly newsletter. Submissions should be no longer than 150 words, written in the third person, and include appropriate links and contact information if relevant. We cannot include PDFs or images, but we can link to them. Please also indicate if you would like your submission included in the AYCOgram (directed towards youth), ACE News (directed towards organizations and educators), or both.

Welcome!

PO Box 1123, Easthampton, MA 01027

We are a nonprofit 501(c)3

Support AYCO with a Donation

Meet Finnegan, our July AYCO Photo Contest Winner. This amazing shot was captured while he was Training at San Diego Circus Center on their awesome tramp wall.

Click to go directly to section news!

AYCO Youth Membership costs $35 per year and is for anyone 21 and under and college students who are passionate about circus arts. This is your chance to plug into the national circus community, network and show off  your circus pride.

Membership benefits include:

Surprise swag mailed to your door three times a year
Eligibility to perform in AYCO event showcases
Discounts on events and merchandise
Monthly email AYCOgram newsletter filled with circus opportunities, news, and videos just for you!

Want to join? Grab an adult and click the button below!

We love to be social and hope that you will connect with us on our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. You’ll engaging circus content and our favorite shares from our members. 

Be sure to tag us using #AmericanYouthCircusOrganization and use our new hashtags: #WeCircusBetterTogether and #TheFutureIsCircus (You can follow these hashtags too!)

 The AYCO Hup Squad are throwing a virtual youth circus hang time and you’re invited!!

When: Sunday August 21 at 3pm PST / 4pm MST / 5pm CST / 6pm EST

What: Come hang out with us! Meet, chat, play, and share your experiences with circus friends from around the country. This event is *free* to all members and $0-10 for non members! 

Where: Once you register for the event, you will receive an email with a Zoom link! 

We are asking for your help with our youth-lead video project in support of Ukrainian Artists. We hope that you will contribute to a project headed by AYCO Hup Squad member Emily Fulton to show the youth circus community’s support for Ukrainian circus artists. Please share this opportunity with youth circus students as well as their coaches. In addition, we welcome submissions from youth both within and outside of AYCO. Please email submissions and any questions to Emily at circuseday4me@gmail.com by August 20, 2022.
 
Video Structure:

• Perform a circus trick of your choice
• After you complete the trick, look at the camera and say, “I join youth circus in supporting Ukrainian artists!” 

Video Guidelines:

• Film in landscape
• You may submit group videos or solo videos
• Dress in a costume, yellow and blue clothes, or street clothes (whatever you feel most comfortable in)

Our HUP Squad has been hard at work this month, and have written four new blog posts with helpful and insightful circus information. Take a read! And be sure to share with a circus friend!  

Diversity While Doing The Impossible

During the pandemic, we all experienced a radical change. Whether it was a newfound love for onlineCircus is a job in which people push themselves to do the impossible, and with that they learn to use all the resources their body gives them. This tends to give certain circus disciplines different gender roles. For example, people who are acro bases are usually males due to their higher levels of testosterone, making them stronger. Meanwhile acro flyers tend to be females due to their increased flexibility and smaller build. Gender roles are magnified in the circus because of these physical differences. But the question is, are they really as relative as we perceive them? Are gender roles beneficial in circus arts and are they relevant to the capability of the artist? Continue Reading

Interview With a 7 Fingers Artistic Director

The 7 Fingers is an arts collective unlike any other. In 2002, the 7 founders set out to redefine circus by stripping down the spectacle to its thrilling essence. The contemporary company tells stories using death-defying acrobatics with a life-affirming theatricality that is unique to The 7 Fingers. Since its inception, the company has expanded from its own signature touring shows to creating theatrical experiences as diverse as the very artistic directors themselves. Continue Reading

ACE Teaching Resource Review:

Hup Squad member Annika Egerstedt shares her review of the Gender and Circus Coaching Guide from ACE. This guide touches on issues around using mindful language and fully understanding these concepts. I think a document like this is vital as we go into this new era of acceptance and as we see more and more people stepping into their true identities. The guide has a section on pronouns but it also discusses the issue of gendered praises and how certain words can have feminine or masculine undertones. Continue Reading

Register for the Southeast Circus Retreat!

Aerial Silks Focus wit Rain Anya
August 12 – 14
Charlotte Cirque & Dance Center
Charlotte, North Carolina
Details: https://www.cltcirquedancecenter.org/southeast-circus-retreat
 
The Southeast Circus Retreat is a new weekend program that is combining elements from a retreat, an apparatus meeting and workshop weekends.  Here’s how:
​
Retreat: This is time for you to work on yourself and be in a non-judgmental environment free of people that you might teach.  

Apparatus Meeting: Like a rope or trapeze meeting, you can meet up with your friends from miles away in person to skill share.​

Workshop Weekend: Tired of noodling around on the silks and need some instruction?  That’s why Rain is here!  To give you some shiny nuggets to jump start your creativity.  
​
Fee: $400
Fee Includes open practice and all workshops. Must sign-up for workshops in advance.
Fee does not include accommodations and food.

Training to Failure as An Aerialist Workshop – August 28th, 10:30 EST

Co-taught by Aaron Koz and Max March-Steinman, the When/Why To Train to Failure (TTF) workshop is intended to help you, as a student OR coach, understand the merits and RISKS of training to failure in different types of exercises. Gain an understanding of which exercise types are safer to failure-train and which may be more trouble than they’re worth. Learn a framework for implementing TTF effectively in your broader training structure and program to increase your strength gains while keeping injury risk low. Learn more and sign up here.

The 10th Annual West Coast Aerial Arts Festival (WCAAF) is open for registration!
 
November 10 – 13, 2022
Aerial Dance Theater, Costa Mesa, California
Competition Dates: November 11 & 12, 2022
 
This aerial competition features categories ranging from 7-year-olds to seniors, novice to professional, various apparatuses, and group entries. Competitors receive participation medals, judges’ feedback, and swag bags. The premium competition package includes an audience ticket and free workshop taught by established educators. Top three winners receive cash prizes, a trophy or medal, social media exposure, and the opportunity to perform their winning piece in the award ceremony. Best of all, participants get to make new friends, choreograph pieces with fellow aerialists, and visit Southern California attractions like Disneyland and Hollywood!
 
Celebrating a decade of festivities, WCAAF provides community and competition that nurtures and inspires professional and non-professional aerialists. To learn more: www.westcoastaerialartsfestival.com. Early Bird rate ends August 1, 2022.

For the fourth year in a row, WheelFest will take place.  Wheel Gymnastics as a sport and show with a variety of events, classes and more is up to come! Train with the champs of the scene! 
A variety of workshops, performance opportunities and competitions await you: There is something for every age group and every level. Workshops will include:  

• Cyr wheel intro
• Specific wheel trick workshops in all disciplines
• Trampoline
• Handstand workshops
• Dance
• Aerials for all
• Wheel fun competition 

 
The focus is not only on training, but also on making new contacts and friendships.  
Are you curious? Take a look here: https://www.usawheelgymnastics.com/2021-wheelfest 
  
Location & date: 
August 17-20 in Chicago, Willye White Park (610 W Howard St, Chicago, IL 60626).  
August 20-21 in Arcadia IN at RIPFEST Diving (108 South Olive St, Arcadia, IN 46030). 
 
Do you have any questions? Contact Mearieta Clemente: mearieta@gmail.com  

Are You, Your Students or Your Kiddos Getting Ready to Audition for Circus Schools This Year? CSAW is Here to Help!
 
CSAW – Connecting Circus Students Around the World has released their 2022 Circus School Application Deadline Mastersheet! Click here: https://bit.ly/csawcircusschoolsheet
 
This spreadsheet includes:
• Circus schools
• Links to applications
• Application deadlines
• Audition dates
• The CSAW Ambassador for the school 
• How to contact that ambassador! 
• What is a CSAW Ambassador? 
 
A CSAW Ambassador is a current student of their international circus school. They are here to support you through applying, auditioning and attending circus school. If you have a question about a school just send the Ambassador an email or a DM and get an honest answer from a student of that school asap!
 
There are currently 16 CSAW Ambassadors to help future circus generations. You can find all of the current CSAW Ambassadors by clicking here: https://www.csawcircus.org/ambassadors

Come see the Circus Smirkus 2022 Big Top Tour! here are just two weeks left of the 2022 Big Top Tour: On the Road Again – and it’s our 35th Anniversary! Come see the joy of 30 circus youth ages 11-18 perform under our beautiful Big Top on tour across New England. Full details at www.smirkus.org/about-big-top-tour/
 
★ Waltham, MA: July 26-August 1
★ Newbury, MA: August 4-5
★ Kennebunkport, ME: August 9-10
★ Greensboro, VT: August 13-14

Join us Thursday, July 28 at 7:00PM at Gore Place in Waltham, MA for the annual Circus Smirkus Gala: The Smirktacular! You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’ll be amazed when you join us live, under the big top for a Smirkus-style soirée including a special performance of the 2022 Big Top Tour: On the Road Again, followed by an anniversary party and fundraiser on the lot. Enjoy an exhilarating performance, mingle with friends old and new, and hear about the positive impact Circus Smirkus has had on so many lives by inspiring kids of all ages to develop artistic, athletic, and life skills through the power of performance.

Ticket and information here: https://www.smirkus.org/special-events/

Aerial Dance Festival 2022: July 31-August 12. Boulder, CO.
 
3-Hour Immersions, 90-Minute Classes, Workshops, Panels, Performances, and more in-person in Boulder, CO! Learn from this year’s incredible line-up of Faculty Artists: Megan Cattau, Terry Crane, Gena DuBose, Cosmo Dudley, Danielle Hendricks, Shannon McKenna, Valerie Morris, Nancy Smith, Sofia Rodriguez, and Anastasia Timina. Join us for one week or two! Learn More and Register Here.
 
https://frequentflyers.org/aerial-dance-festival/

Circus Harmony was thrilled to be part of Montreal Completement Cirque Festival in Montreal! Our St Louis Arches were part of Ciruque Hors Piste’s Carnaval de Cirque Social and did a number of performances on the grounds of La Tohu. In addition to presenting unicycling, juggling, and hula hoops, they wowed the crowd with the banquine and pyramid skills in their partner acrobatics act. 
 
Some Circus Harmony alumni were also performing at the festival, Isabella Majzun and The K.O. Duo, Kyran Walton and Oliver Layher. The Arches got to yours of Les 7 Doigts, Ecole Nationale de Cirque, and Cirque du Soleil. This was the first time Circus Harmony has been part of Montreal Completement Cirque. It was an exciting honor to be part of this internationally renowned festival!

Check out photos of the event on Facebook at: https://www.faceboo