Welcome to the circus

By Ryan Jones

Windsorites are now able to join the circus.

Windsor Circus School will be opening its doors to the public in the downtown core on May 1, 2017. It is located in the Chelsea Building at 511 Pelissier St.

The school offers various skills with lessons in aerial silks, lyra (aerial hoop), trapeze, inversion, juggling and plate-spinning. Owners Tia Nicoletti and Joe Jelasic both have previous experience in performance and circus arts.

“Ever since I was young I was fascinated with circus arts and performance. My father owned an entertainment company and I grew up with performers from an early age. I suppose I learned an appreciation for the craft being exposed to that environment and working in it for so long. Today I enjoy staying active and training with standing acrobatics,” said Jelasic.  

Jelasic said classes have already been fully booked, though there are spots left, and he is pleased with the positive response. The average class lasts 90 minutes and are booked in 8-week portions to enable the progression of students. Each eight-week course costs $176 plus HST.

Having fun is a prominent theme, said Nicoletti, as people are discovering a new way of movement.

“It’s a sensation of reverting back to being free hanging upside down and laughing amongst new friends,” said Nicoletti. “Secondly, strength building and mobility training—utilizing your body like you never have before. It involves balance, core, inversion, isolation and so much more.”

The co-owners said their future plans consist of creating partnerships with local businesses and entrepreneurs, as well as reaching out to people in the community.

“I would love to see WCS reach out to those who never thought they would be able to do something like this,” said Nicoletti.

“I hope to allow everyone the opportunity to experience something new and profound.”