LEARNING THE BASICS –10 x 45min
• Aerial Silks
• Aerial Hoop
• Aerial Trapeze
• Clowning and Physical Comedy
• Juggling, Poi, Hula hoops, Plate Spinning, Ribbons, Diabolo…
• Stilt Walking
CREATING A SHOW – 10 x 45min
Taking the basic elements we learned in the first portion of the program, we will put together a show. The show creation is where all the magic comes together and I find this process to have the most impact for the kids. My approach is always to empower kids and to put the creative control in their hands, where the kids get to use their skills, creativity, teamwork, and individualism. In a circus show there is a place for everyone – the clown, the acrobat, the director, the ringmaster/MC, the sound and lights operator, etc. I am always blown away by the ideas kids come up with and how fast a show can come together when kids are at the helm. The show consists of a clown parade, a section of featured acts (solos, duos, trios), and a finale. Other classes and/or friends and family can be invited to watch.
| Grade Suitability | K-12 |
| Maximum Class Size | 12 (Class needs to take place in gymnasium) |
| Time Required | 5 hours (3hrs 45 mins instructional time + 1hr 15 mins prep time) |
| Material Required | All materials provided |
| Language of Instruction | English, French |
| Communities | All |
Claire Ness grew up in Whitehorse, then studied Comedy Writing and Performance at Humber College in Toronto, and Circus Training at École Nationale de Cirque in Montréal.
Claire is a prolific songwriter in a variety of genres: blues, country, folk, jazz, children’s, musical theatre, francophone, and comedy. Her album “Broccoli Farm” won a Canadian Folk Music Award and a Western Canadian Music Award.
Claire is the Founding Artistic Director of the Yukon Circus Society and loves to bring circus camps and workshops across the Yukon. She recently won the Yukon 125 Medal for her outstanding dedication and remarkable contributions to the Yukon community.