Performing Arts Full Time Course
Circus in Performance is the UK's premier full time circus foundation course
CIP is a twelve-week intensive qualification in circus skills for adults. Accredited by the Open College Network to Level 3, Greentop is a performing arts school and has been successfully running the Circus in Performance course since 1996.
Image of former CIP student Samara Casewell, © Nynke Wierda Photography
Course details:
The course addresses all aspects of circus skills and performance, and culminates in planning, producing, preparing and performing a successful show. It is hard work but fun and participants will need to be dedicated, determined and willing to work closely with other artists.
Each of these modules are taught by professional, practicing exponents of the art, many with national and international reputations.
The course focuses primarily on performance and presentation, rather than demonstration. Various techniques will be explored to encourage the unique performer within us all.
In addition the course covers many areas involved in performing professionally such as First Aid, Child Protection, Health and safety and how to become a successful self-employed circus performer.
Former Circus in Performance students have gone on to study at BTEC and Degree level at Circomedia, Circus Space or other international circus schools or are now working in theatre and performing arts, managing their own companies and projects, and performing at various events and festivals across the globe. Find out what CIP student Chez did next.
All learners are given complimentary Greentop membership for one year, entitling them to discounted rates to continue training at the centre and for future events and workshops.
Feedback from learners:
- "It has been a life changing experience. Something that was a far off dream for years is now more of a reality"
- "It has given me lots of confidence to pursue my ambitions"
- "The tutors were all brilliant in their disciplines and so supportive"
Frequently asked questions:
How to apply after the audition date?
Applicants should complete an application form and email this with photos and links to any video clips (eg on YouTube) that they think would help tutors assess their suitability for the course.
When are the next course dates?
The course runs from January to April every year. Exact details of dates and fees will be confirmed throughout the year, once confirmed, the dates will be posted online on this page. Please bookmark this site and check for updates.
Do I have to have existing circus experience?
Previous circus skills and experience are not a pre-requisite for acceptance on the course.
Is help available with the course fees?
Very limited funding may be available but grants are highly competitive. You can contact your local Arts Council regional office for information, or try www.fundingcentral.org, www.grantsforindividuals.org.uk/search, and www.studentcashpoint.co.uk
Is help available with accommodation?
Greentop does not have its own accommodation for learners, however Sheffield has the largest circus community outside London and Bristol, and within the Greentop and circus communities there are a number of people who regularly rent out rooms to CiP students, and once students are accepted onto the course Greentop will try to help students with any accomodation problems.
What is the audition? What happens at the audition?
The audition takes place once a year at Greentop's performing arts centre. The audition consists of a series of games and group exercises. Applicants are not asked to perform a solo piece, and are not assessed on prior circus skills. This lasts a couple of hours, after which there will be a brief informal interview with each applicant in turn.
Criteria assessed in the auditions:
- Flexibility, fitness and stamina
- Willingness to perform/ participate in a group
- Why you want to do the course
- How it will help your future plans
- How you will meet the course fees and support yourself during the course
What if I can't attend the audition?
Applicants who attend the auditions will be at an advantage, but applicants who are unable to attend may still apply, and will need to submit additional materials to help us assess your application.
All forms of performance art are welcomed including circus, dance, theatre and spoken word (stand up comedy, poetry, monologues etc.). Materials submitted should help tutors assess the same criteria assessed in the auditions (see above).
There is no fixed format or content for this, but any extra evidence of skills and experience will be taken into account when considering applications. Applicants may wish to send videos and photos of them demonstrating skills, or taking part in performances. It does not have to be professional quality footage, or professional level performance.
Footage or photos can be from performances at school / college, local festivals, practise sessions at a juggling club etc. We understand that not everyone will have videos or photos but please provide details of all performances and performable skills in your CV. Late
Will you run the course again later in the year?
The course only runs once a year, from January to April.
How to Apply:
- To apply, please download and complete the CIP Application Form and return by email to lauren@greentop.org , or ring 0114 244 8828 for more information
