BRATTLEBORO — On Saturday, Jan. 4, from noon to 2 p.m., New England Center for Circus Arts will offer a free opportunity for interested students to try activities out before committing to a session of classes.
Youths and adults can play on aerial silks, learn to juggle, balance on a wire, hang on a low trapeze, and explore New England's only custom-built circus facility.
The open house is free with activities for youth 18 months and older as well as for adults of all ages. There will be staff on hand leading activity stations and available to answer any questions.
This is also a chance to try the flying trapeze. Clip into safety lines and swing out over the net for an experience unlike any other. The cost is $10 for one turn or $20 for three turns, and is open to anyone ages 5 and up.
NECCA is an internationally recognized circus school known for innovative teaching, coaches at the top of their field, a welcoming and inclusive community, and dedication to providing training catered to the individual, according to a news release.
Winter classes at NECCA begin Jan. 6 with more than two dozen beginner-friendly classes, including an early morning fitness class with low trapezes, novice stretching, low wire, tots and youth classes, and weekly juggle jams.
Many NECCA students begin in their 50s and 60s (with several in their 70s) and the combination of stretching and strengthening helps with balance and muscle tone for bodies of all ages.
There are also more athletic classes for adults including trampoline (great cross training for acrobatic skiers), partner acrobatics, German wheel and pole, plus a wide variety of youth- and teen-specific classes for all levels.