Everything you need to know
How it Works:
Find the classes you want to take & build your own schedule!
Make an account on uplifter and get ready to register on Feb 15th!
Mark your calendar & get ready to try something new and have some fun!
Pricing:
Individual workshops = $50 each
4 workshops or more = $45 each
7 workshops or more = $300 Full Weekend Pass + Unlimited Workshops + Welcome Workshop Teasers
THE CIRCLE PERFORMANCE
This special iteration of The Circle highlights aerial performances by the Instructors of the Kootenay Circus Arts Festival as well as our Act Mentorship program.
Whether you’re presenting a polished act or an idea-in-progress, we welcome all expressions of aerial and circus artistry. This is a space to uplift one another, celebrate creative risk-taking, and connect with our vibrant circus community.
FULL WEEKEND SCHEDULE
Registration is Now Open!
There is something for everyone
LEVELING
All workshops are ages 10+
Open Level :
Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, this class is for everyone! The Open Level welcomes all skill levels, giving you the freedom to work at your own pace while still being challenged. It's a great opportunity to explore new movements, build strength, and connect with others in a supportive environment. No matter where you are on your aerial journey, you'll find something here to inspire and motivate you.
Beginner :
If you're just starting out in the aerial world, this is the perfect place to begin. Whether it’s your first time in the air or you're still getting comfortable with the basics, our classes are designed to help you build confidence and ease. No prior experience is needed—everyone is welcome to give it a try!
Intermediate :
If you've been training in aerial for a while and are ready to take your skills further, this level is for you. These classes are ideal for those looking to refine their techniques and continue their progress. You should have some consistent practice under your belt, but don't worry—your journey and growth are celebrated here.
Advanced :
For those already confident in their aerial practice and looking to fine-tune their technique, this level is a great fit. These classes focus on elevating your skills to the next level, exploring more complex sequences and movements while refining precision, strength, and flow. We encourage you to experiment with creative transitions, and develop a personal style that sets you apart. Expect a combination of technical work and artistic expression, all within a supportive and challenging environment.
WELCOME & WORKSHOP TEASERS
FRI 6:00 pm - WELCOME & WORKSHOP TEASERS
Mixed Apparatus
Open Level
Kick off the Kootenay Circus Arts Festival with an exciting taste of what’s to come! These open-level, 30-minute workshop stations offer a chance to explore different circus disciplines, meet the instructors, and get inspired for the weekend ahead. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this is the perfect way to dive into the festival and warm up for an unforgettable experience!
Stations include:
Jenn Bruyer - Aerial Silks
Dan Saab - Aerial Hoop
Sevrin Baker - Postural Alignment
Six Oh Flow - Flow State
FABRIC WORKSHOPS
SAT 9:00 AM : 2 FOR THE PRICE OF 1: Is it Silks or Trapeze?
Jenn Bruyer
Intermediate - Silks/Trapeze
Prerequisites: Ability to pullover onto the bar easily, invert in the air (silks), remain in the air for two minutes, and a basic understanding of two pole theory (silks with split panels).
There are some FUNdamental skills and pathways that translate to some very different ideas whether you choose to apply them to either trapeze ropes or aerial silks. Many of my favorite dance trapeze phrases would not have been possible without an understanding of silk theory, much the same way that many of my favorite constructs on aerial silks were inspired by my background in trapeze work. In this workshop we will learn to look to unlikely places for inspiration and truly embody the concept of becoming the “versatile artist”.
SAT 5:00 PM : FABRIC WITCHCRAFT
Jenn Bruyer
Advanced - Silks
Prerequisites: Ability to remain in the air for two minutes and invert multiple times in the same sequence, familiarity with the four fundamental wraps: catcher/hipkey/s-lock/u-wrap(z-wrap) and what “side” you are on, and ability to keep up with multiple step sequences.
It’s still magic, even if you know how it’s done... Seemingly complex, aerial fabric employs a few simple rule sets that when combined create a spellbinding effect. Wraps, shelves, and connections can appear and disappear in an instant. In this workshop we will dig deeply into &’fabric theory’ - relating connections to one another all the while exploring some super sneaky examples of knots, hitches, releases and wraps that simply do not seem possible or are surprising to even an educated eye.
SUN 1:00 PM : THE DROPSHOP
Dan Saab
Advanced - Sling
Prerequisites: Must be able to invert in the air unassisted, must be able to safely “bomb drop”/”candy cane drop” without a spot, straight arm inversions, must be able to safely “diaper drop”/”front salto” and stop the momentum without rolling to armpits.
In this workshop, we will be exploring all things dynamic on hammock. We will cover different kinds of rolls, slides, and flips, as well as different entrances and exits for each. The focus of this workshop will be taking several commonly known wraps and applying different actions to them.
SUN 3:30 PM : TRANSITION THEORY
Dan Saab
Open level - Sling
Prerequisites: Familiarity and comfort with back straddle, must be able to get into the hammock safely and without assistance
This workshop does not place a focus on new vocabulary, though new vocabulary may be included. This workshop is an applied concept workshop on the theory of our movement as it applies to aerial. The focal point of this workshop is cleaning and improving the space between our skills. We will break down and discuss different techniques and styles on how to make students more precise while working in sling.
SUN 10:00 AM : SASSY SILKS - Dance Inspired Aerials
Jake The Lady
Open level - Silks
Prerequisites: No previous aerial experience required—just bring your energy, sass, and a love for movement!
Get ready to unleash your inner performer in this fun, dance-inspired Sassy Silks class! This workshop combines the grace and strength of aerial silks with the attitude and flair of dance, giving you the freedom to express yourself while mastering the fabric. With a focus on playful, sassy choreography and fluid silks movements, you’ll learn to incorporate stylish transitions, spins, and poses that will make you feel empowered and confident. Whether you’re an aerial newbie or a seasoned pro, this class is all about having fun while exploring your creativity in the air. Expect plenty of attitude—because the only thing more important than technique is owning every move you make!
SAT 2:30PM : INTRO TO AERIALS
Circus Acts Insomniacs - Jake The Lady
Beginner - Silks, Lyra, Trapeze
Prerequisites: No prior experience needed—just come with an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to defy gravity!
Curious about aerial arts but not sure where to start? Intro to Aerial is the perfect beginner workshop for you! This class offers a fun, low-pressure introduction to multiple aerial apparatuses, including silks, trapeze, and hoop, giving you the chance to explore different ways to fly, hang, and move through the air. In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn the basics of each apparatus, building strength, coordination, and confidence while discovering which one feels like the best fit for you. Whether you want to try graceful silks, dynamic trapeze, or the fluidity of hoop, you’ll get a taste of it all in a supportive and encouraging environment.
AERIAL HOOP & TRAPEZE WORKSHOPS
SAT 5:00 PM : DYNAMIC MOVEMENT
Dan Saab
Advanced - Aerial Hoop
Prerequisites: Must be able to straddle invert and tuck/pike invert under the bar with straight legs safely, easily and without assistance. Ease with foundational hoop skills, straight arm inverts. 2+ Elbow circles.
In this workshop, students will learn different flips and slides on the hoop to emphasize the dynamic nature of this apparatus. Students will take several commonly known poses and learn different drops and slides out of them in order to add a different flare to these tricks.
SAT 11:30 AM : HOOP SEQUENCING
Dan Saab
Intermediate - Lyra
Prerequisites: Must be able to straddle invert and tuck/pike invert under the bar safely, cleanly, and without assistance. Ease with foundational hoop skills.
This workshop will cover piecing various skills together on hoop. We will cover a handful of different sequences and focus on cleaning our transitions for better lines and more functional movement in the air.
SUN 10:00 AM : TRAPEZE SKILLS & TRANSITIONS
Jenn Bruyer
Intermediate - Trapeze
Prerequisites: Ability to pullover onto the bar easily, remain in the air for two minutes, and SOME experience with either aerial fabric or work in the trapeze ropes.
The perfect workshop for those who have aerial experience and are “trapeze curious” or trapeze enthusiasts who would like to expand their trapeze “roadmap”. We will examine various trapeze specific skills and pair those with some of the very best transitions to make some of my favorite signature phrases! I like to think of this as a core experience in your trapeze journey.
SAT 2:30PM : DOUBLES WORKSHOP
Fly by Night - Ally Bat & Mackenzie Rose
Open level - Lyra & Trapeze
Prerequisites: No previous experience required. Confidence to hold onto a bar apparatus and work together.
Note*** Partners are not required, but participants should feel comfortable with physical contact and collaborating closely in a duo setting
This workshop will explore the idea of working as a dynamic duo on Lyra and Trapeze. We will work with counterbalance, shape exploration, symmetry, balances and holds. We will learn a short sequence that can be built upon and could be applicable on multiple apparatuses.
SUN 1:00PM : SPIN SCIENCE ~ SPINNING INTO CONTROL
Mackenzie Rose
Intermediate
Prerequisites: It’s recommended to bring your ginger to this class!
In this class, we’ll dive deep into the art and physics of aerial spins. We’ll explore multiple methods for generating a spin, from body mechanics to timing, and discover the pathways that help us work with and through the spin with control and grace. Expect to get nerdy as we touch on the flare pathway—understanding the intricate flow and momentum that power those iconic, fluid movements. We’ll also focus on finding our centers of balance, learning how to maintain them while spinning, and how to seamlessly transition between spins. Whether you're looking to refine your technique or learn something new, this class will deepen your understanding of aerial spins from the ground up.
GROUND BASED WORKSHOPS
SUN 3:30PM : EMBODYING STORIES
Circus Acts Insomniacs
Ally Bat, Mackenzie Rose & Renee Letourneau
Open level - Ground based workshop
Prerequisites: No prior dance or performance experience required—just an open mind and a willingness to explore!
Note*** Please bring a notebook and pen
Explore the powerful art of kinetic storytelling—using physical expression, gestures, and body language to bring narratives to life. Through guided exercises you’ll learn to convey emotions, and character through movement alone. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or someone new to physical storytelling, this workshop invites you to break free from the traditional narrative form and discover how your body can communicate meaning, evoke emotions, and create immersive experiences. Join us as we dive into the connection between story and motion, and unlock new ways of expressing the stories inside you.
SAT 9:00 AM : POSTURAL ALIGNMENT - For Aerialists
Sevrin Baker
Open level - Ground based workshop
Prerequisites: a foundational body awareness and some experience with aerials for relevance to this workshop
Join Sevrin Baker, Neuroplastician and Certified C.H.E.K. Practitioner, for a workshop designed to enhance your postural alignment and boost your aerial performance. Drawing on years of experience in corrective exercise, Sevrin will guide you through techniques to improve body mechanics, increase strength, and prevent injury—essential for aerialists of all levels.
In this class, you'll learn how proper alignment through acute cuing and philosophy around body mechanics. Through clear, easy-to-understand exercises, you'll gain tools to rehabilitate past injuries and build a stronger, more balanced body for aerial work.
SAT 9:00 AM : POSTURAL ALIGNMENT - For Everyone
Sevrin Baker
Open level - Ground based workshop
Prerequisites: No prior experience needed—just bring a willingness to learn and explore how your body moves!
Start your journey with Sevrin Baker, Neuroplastician and Certified C.H.E.K. Practitioner, in this beginner-friendly workshop focused on postural alignment and body mechanics. Sevrin will guide you through simple, effective exercises that help improve your posture, strength, and mobility. Learn how to align your body properly to prevent strain, build core stability, and create a solid foundation. This workshop will help you move with more control, confidence, and ease through the day to day.
SAT 11:30 AM : FLOOR WORK - For Non Dancers
Jenn Bruyer
Open Level - Ground Based Workshop
Why is it that aerialists often feel confident and embodied in the air and so afraid of movement on the floor?
Vocabulary.
We amass endless skills and combinations on aerial apparatus but when we haven’t invested the same amount of time collecting and refining floor based movements it can feel daunting to do even the shortest sequences before or after we mount our equipment.
This workshop is designed to give students permission to move authentically on the floor utilizing a simple system of pathways, intentions, and movement qualities that can be endlessly translated into new sequences and ideas.
ACRO WORKSHOPS
SAT 2:30PM : THE BASICS & BEYOND - Acrobatic Foundations
Siovhan Williamson
Open level - Acrobatics
Prerequisites: downward facing dog, plank, ability to jump and land on 2 feet
Foundations and drills for four basic acrobatic movements will be introduced and expressed in different forms - the roll, the handstand, the cartwheel and the walkover. Expect to learn drills to take with you beyond the class. Whether you are a complete beginner or have some experience with acrobatics, there will be material in this class for you, as we will be playing with how these basic skill concepts can translate into other movements.
SUN 6:00PM : LIFT EACH OTHER UP - Partner Acrobatics
Siovhan Williamson & Vivian Hughan
Open level - Acrobatics
Prerequisites: hold a plank position on the ground, mobility to allow a deep squat.
Note: it’s not necessary to bring a partner to the class as participants will form groups and work together
In this workshop we will explore the foundations of partner acrobatics for both ground based and standing acro. Expect to learn drills and skills that you can use to build a partner acro practise, or strengthen your basics if you’ve got some experience.
FLOW WORKSHOPS
SAT 9:00AM : GROUNDING, INTEGRATING & EXPANDING INTO YOUR FLOW STATE - Part 1
Six Oh Flow
Hoop Flow - Open level
Prerequisites: Recommended hoop size: 26-36” 5/8”, 11/16th or 3/4” tubing (additional hoops will be available)
Note*** bring a journal and pen and that will be important for the two part class series.
The first part of this two class series will explore how to ground into your existing flow, and lean into creating & reinforcing a solid foundation upon which to launch into your flow state. Learn new drills, tips, techy tricks and combinations, with an emphasis on how to better seamlessly integrate new concepts into your existing flow.
SUN 6:00PM : GROUNDING, INTEGRATING & EXPANDING INTO YOUR FLOW STATE - Part 2
Six Oh Flow
Hoop Flow - Open level
Prerequisites: Recommended hoop size: 26-36” 5/8”, 11/16th or 3/4” tubing (additional hoops will be available)
Note*** bring a journal and pen and that will be important for the two part class series.
The second part of this two class series will focus on the integration of tech and dance. you learn to expand your flow in time and physical space through expansive, expressive movement! Delve into your own personal movement style and playing with speed variations, and expand into a flow style that is uniquely you by integrating it all into the pathway taught in the first part of this series. Creating a flow style that is uniquely you.
SUN 1:00PM : INTRO INTO SILK VEIL - The silkier side of hoop flow
Six Oh Flow
Open level
Prerequisites: no prior hoop or hoop veil skills are required. Silk veils will be provided.
Explore a whole new side to hooping and find out just how different and expansive veil hooping can be! Play with the ever changing ins and out of manipulating silk and learn to lean into resistance and patience within your flow.
CLOWNING WORKSHOPS
SAT 5:00PM : THE POSTURE OF AWE - A window into clown
Hannah Cornelia
Open level
Prerequisites: n/a
In this workshop, we will journey through a series of exercises and games, to come into contact with our state of ‘awe’. We will be working with breath, sounds, shapes, stillness and movement, to better understand where emotions live in our body. With more access to self, we have more options as to what to share with our witnesses and/or ‘awe’dience. This will be a space to nurture your imagination, play and discover.
SUN 10:00AM : HANDS FROM HIPS - Dance workshop
Hannah Cornelia
Open level
Prerequisites: n/a
This class will focus heavily on breath, relaxation and connectivity. We will have a chance to explore some foundation exercises from Suzuki Method and Indian Temple Dance. Both of these training styles have a martial flavour and require a free flowing, mind body connection. We will spend a considerable amount of time on the floor and in micro movements. Dress warm while allowing full range of motion.
FLEXIBILITY WORKSHOPS
SUN 1:00PM : ACTIVE FLEXIBILITY
Petunia Rae
Open level
Prerequisites: no prior experience needed
Unlock your range of motion with Active Flexibility, a dynamic workshop that combines strength and flexibility training to improve your mobility. Through active stretching, mobility drills, and movement flows, you'll safely increase flexibility while building strength with a focus on injury prevention. Ideal for aerialists or anyone looking to enhance their flexibility, this class helps you develop sustainable, functional mobility with control and precision.
STRAPS WORKSHOPS
SUN 3:30PM : STRAPS & LOOPS
Petunia Rae
Beginner
Prerequisites: No prior aerial experience needed—just bring your curiosity, a sense of adventure, and a readiness to defy gravity!
Discover the art of aerial straps in this beginner-friendly workshop! Straps & Loops introduces you to the world of aerial arts, where you’ll learn the basics of working with straps and loops. Through foundational techniques, you'll explore body alignment and strength-building, while developing confidence in the air. Whether you're new to circus or just looking to try something different, this class will guide you through safe, accessible exercises to help you build strength and coordination.
SUN 6:00PM : STRAPS
Petunia Rae
Advanced
Prerequisites: A strong desire to be a BEAST! Ability to perform long arm inversions, propensity with beats, can do 3 pull ups, experience with flares and spinning.
Do you love conditioning? This class is for you! Designed for experienced aerialists, this class will push your strength, technique, and creativity as you dive deeper into the intricacies of aerial straps. Prepare to be challenged both mentally and physically, with a focus on technique, flow, and artistic expression. This workshop is perfect for those ready to take their aerial straps practice to the next level and unleash their full potential.