Synapse Circus
About Synapse
Synapse Circus is SANCA’s newest performance troupe. It is designed for eager students who want to perform while also participating in other sports/activities. Synapse Circus is aged 8-18 and meets once a week to work on group acts for SANCA Shows. There are four shows each year: SANCA’s Annual Student Showcase (SASS), Winterfest, “Up, with a Twist!” gala, and opening acts for the Cirrus and/or Celestial Shows.
This troupe meets once a week, working together to learn new skills and create a group act for one of its upcoming shows. Circus arts the troupe uses in its acts include juggling, aerial fabric, tumbling, trapeze, group acro, and rolling globe. Since we focus on group acts, everyone is included and teamwork is a priority!
How to Apply?
Who can evaluate and how do you apply?
Current SANCA students ages 8-18 with an interest in exploring circus performance, but are busy with other things like extracurriculars, are encouraged to apply.
Interested students should ask their coach and/or the front office. Families will be put in touch with the Youth Company Manager for the next steps.
When will the evaluations be held?
Evaluations for Synapse are held in the Spring of each year. Depending on the needs of the troupe, a second set of evaluations may be held in the Fall as well.
What do you need for the evaluation?
Evaluation day allows prospective students to get the chance to attend class to see if it is a good fit in skill and commitment level. Students should arrive for evaluations in circus-ready attire and a circus-ready attitude!
What will the coaches look for during the evaluation?
– A willingness to try all circus skills presented
– Ability to work with others to achieve a goal
– A willingness to receive and incorporate coach feedback
– Has a desire or willingness to perform in front of an audience
– Shows an aptitude for performance and theatre
– Ability to maintain focus and discipline
– A willingness to overcome challenges
Circus Skills**
Tumbling
– Forward roll position jump
– Backward roll
– Cartwheel on both sides
– Handstand holding against a wall
Aerial
– Sitting on Trapeze
– Knee Hang
– Bird’s Nest
– Climbing the Fabric
Rolling Globe
– Standing
– Walking
– Free mounting
Tightwire
– Walking forwards
– Walking backwards with a spot
Juggling
– Single ball toss and catch
– Two ball toss and catch
– Two and/or Three ring passing
**Note: **Note: This is an example of skills evaluated, not a comprehensive list. No student is required to have all of the skills perfected while participating in evaluation. The evaluation is a time for the coaches to see the skill level of the students, but whether or not they are asked to join is based more on the non-skill traits listed above.
