TWISTED: Alex, 12, balances on Rochelle, 16.By TANIA MARTIN
RUNNING away to join the circus could be just around the corner with the Coonara Community Circus (CCC) running classes every week.
The circus skills are part of an extension and enrichment program offered by the Coonara Community School in Ferntree Gully.
The school has given students the chance to participate in circus skills and acrobalance classes since 2000.
CCC coordinator Robyn Hughes said Coonara was forced to close its circus as insurance costs continued to rise.
However, as there was an enormous interest in the community for the continuation of the circus lessons, the school decided in April last year to offer the program to the wider community.
The circus now runs junior and senior classes and has performed in many local events and festivals over the past year.
Ms Hughes said students get the opportunity to learn new and exciting skills at their own pace in a fun, noncompetitive, supportive environment.
The classifying of senior and junior levels depends less on age than on a student’s maturity and past experience, she said.
The school helped the circus with its startup costs of more than $2500.
The circus is able to cover its operating costs, but is always looking for sponsors.
Junior classes run on Mondays between 4pm and 5.30pm and Wednesdays from 4 to 5pm, and senior classes on Mondays from 5.30pm to 7pm and Wednesdays from 5 to 6.30pm.
There are currently only a few places remaining. Those interested in joining should contact Robyn Hughes on 9753 6138 or 0422 025 651.
The classes cost $8 for onehour classes and $10 for oneandahalf hour classes.
