Circus workshop leaves kids hanging around this summer (From Times Series)

Circus workshop at artsdepot in North Finchley leaves kids hanging around this summer

3:30pm Friday 13th August 2010 in News By Kevin Bradford

A REVOLUTIONARY theatre group has given young people a chance to discover a new way to hang around during the holidays.

A circus school has been teaching youngsters aerial theatre this week at artsdepot, in Tally Ho.

Ockham's Razor are a leading aerial theatre company and they have been sharing their daring circus skills with people aged eight to 19.

The groups have been learning how to use high ropes, the trapeze and high silks to create movement-led, non-verbal theatre.

Charlotte Mooney, artistic director of the company and one of three aerial artists, said: “We are helping the kids make aerial theatre, which is quite a new art form.

“It combines elements of circus skills and aerial acrobatics to tell a story and make physical theatre. It shows the kids how they can use images and shapes on the equipment to tell a story.

“They have been really receptive and very energetic. Young people understand images easier and how to build pictures.

“It is just a wonderful opportunity to introduce young people into something they would not have come across ordinarily.”

The week-long course, at the North Finchley theatre, has been teaching the participants how to combine circus, dance and visual theatre to create work that is “arresting and entertaining”.

Anaya Panchani, 12, from Mill Hill said: “I thought it would be really good to try it. It is really difficult, but I wouldn't get to try it usually and it is a lot of fun.

“There are professionals helping which makes it easier to learn, but it makes you ache a bit.”

Another participant, 12-year-old Simone Mendonca, said: “I am a dancer already and so I thought this might help with my flexibility and strength.

“I thought it would be really hard, but it is also a lot of fun and a real change.”

Circus School is one several activities being led by the group, who are artists in residence at artsdepot.

Tom Wilton, education officer at artsdepot, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to learn some amazing skills and techniques from a really dynamic circus company.

“Artsdepot is committed to offering young people the chance to participate in exciting creative workshops and work with cutting-edge artists.

“Ockham’s Razor and their breathtaking aerial performances are a perfect example of the level of experience we are able to offer to young people.”