Circomedia: Leading the Way in Contemporary Circus and Physical Theatre Education
Circomedia: Pioneering Contemporary Circus and Physical Theatre Education
Circomedia, based in Bristol, England, is a renowned school for contemporary circus and physical theatre. They offer a range of training courses and workshops that integrate circus skills with physical theatre, performance, and creativity. Their vibrant program includes presenting 36 professional circus, theatre, and dance shows annually.
At Circomedia, contemporary circus and physical theatre are central to their mission. They educate the next generation of artists through BTEC, Degree, and Masters courses. Additionally, they present innovative work at their city centre venue at Portland Square, St Pauls and engage with the public through part-time classes and community outreach projects.
Circomedia is made up of committed and talented staff and students who work incredibly hard to produce challenging work that feeds into the exciting and diverse world of contemporary circus and related performing arts. They maintain high retention rates, and students are well-prepared for the competitive modern marketplace. Through selective admissions and thorough open days, students choose Circomedia carefully, and are valued highly in return.
Circus has captivated audiences for centuries, evolving significantly since Philip Astley, the father of modern circus, began performing in 1768. Traditional circus acts have transformed into contemporary circus, emphasising innovative human artistry over animal performances. This evolution has revived the circus tradition since the late 1970s, with groups experimenting with new formats and aesthetics.
Bristol's circus scene is rooted in the alternative movement of the 1970s, inspired by protest movements in France, the UK, and the USA. This era introduced new forms from art schools and alternative theatre, blending ritual, installations, and walkabout performances. The movement evolved in the 1990s, becoming more urban, political, and modern, striving to reinvent circus as an art form.
Britain's first circus school, ‘Fool Time’, opened in Bristol on April 1, 1986. Founded by Richard Ward, it offered the UK's first degree in circus skills, igniting a new generation of circus talent. Fool Time evolved into Circomedia in 1994, continuing to attract students worldwide driven by a passion for combining circus skills with physical theatre and creativity.
For over 30 years, Circomedia has been at the forefront of contemporary circus education. They believe in developing minds and personalities as much as physical skills. Their approach nurtures imaginative and innovative training, encouraging students to create original and inspiring work. They aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for the artistic landscape, fostering their potential to blend circus and theatre creatively.
For more on Circomedia and the history of circus in Bristol see www.https://www.circomedia.com/.