The Kelso High circus program began 14 years ago and continues to grow. The program is available to all students from Years 7-12. Circus is offered as a sport to all year levels, an elective subject in Years 9 and 10 and, for senior students, as a module in SLR.
Students involved in the circus program have displayed an increase in sociable behaviour, more consistent attendance, improved academic performance and better communication skills. They are more confident, have improved fitness levels and a strong sense of being valued.
The students learn a wide range of circus skills: from acrobatic floor work, unicycling, juggling, balance, stilts, fire, hoops. Aerial acrobatics include silks, hoop, trapeze, cloud swing and Spanish web. Students from our circus program have been successful in auditioning for the National Institute for Circus Arts (NICA) in Melbourne. Many of our graduates have established careers in the circus arts.
Students who demonstrate exceptional talent, dedication and school values are encouraged to audition for a contract to join the performance side of the program, the highly acclaimed Cirkus Surreal. The troupe has performed at high profile events both nationally and internationally. They are respected and acknowledged by other troupes including Cirque Du Soleil, Circus Oz and Circus Monoxide.
Cirkus Surreal began performing on the international stage in 2008 with a tour to Las Vegas. 2011 saw the troupe travel from San Francisco to New York and then Montreal to Quebec City. In April 2014 it was Las Vegas to Vancouver and Salt Spring Island. 2016 saw the troupe return to British Columbia to train and perform with students from local schools on Salt Spring Island. In 2018, the troupe travelled to Hawaii to perform for Rotary and workshopped with the Volcano Circus.
For further information about Cirkus Surreal and photos from past performances, please visit our Cirkus Surreal web site.