Roll up, roll up…and meet the circus stars of Barnum

2 August 2024

Barnum circus performers Kiera Brunton, André Rodrigues and Dan Holland share their experience in bringing the circus magic to the Watermill, and their top-tips on how to join the circus!

What circus skills do you specialise in? 

Dan: I specialise in aerial arts, anything that allows me to fly including dance trapeze, silks, strap loops, hoop and harness work! 

Kiera: I grew up competing in Sports-Acrobatic Gymnastics, specialising in partner and trio work, and tumbling. I’ve trained in aerial hoop, and now thanks to this job I’ve trained in static trapeze! 

André: Aerial hoop, stilt walking, flow arts, and fire (flow, eating, breathing and body burning).

How did you train to become a circus performer? 

André: I trained in London with The Fire School, Flying Fantastic and the National Centre for Circus Arts. 

Kiera: Growing up I trained with my sports-acro gymnastic squad, where I was always the little one being thrown around doing all the flips in the air. I trained in partner work and trio work and in tumbling.

Dan: I started my journey at My Aerial Home, doing every course they provided…some more than once!

Tell us about the rehearsal process for Barnum…

Kiera: We started our rehearsals with two weeks of circus training at National Centre for Circus Arts with our wonderful circus director Amy Panter. Then we came to Newbury to join the rest of the cast, we’d often have aerial sessions throughout the week at Spin City to keep our training going strong alongside rehearsals.

André: The rehearsal process was really creative and it was lovely to be able to use our strengths within the pre-show and the show itself. It has been wonderful to work with the super talented creative team too.  

What has it been like performing at the Watermill theatre?

André: Magical. The theatre and grounds are so peaceful and whimsical. I would love to work here again as all the staff are so lovely and everyone cares about the show. 

Kiera: The Watermill Theatre is such a special venue. The audiences here have also been so lovely and supportive. They’ve made our outdoor pre-shows fun when we’re interacting with them, teaching people to juggle, whilst we’re getting to flip around and play. It’s also been incredible spending time with this cast.

Dan: There is a family atmosphere with a whole lotta love put into the show and the company.

What advice would you give to others looking to pursue a career in circus performance?

Dan: Just go for it and never think you know better or you’ve learnt enough. Always remain a student to the art itself and push your individuality.

André: Have a look at all the different areas of circus and go watch! Supporting different acts in cabarets is super important to see different equipment and styles that will inspire you.

Kiera: If you’ve ever wanted to give something like this a go then go for it. Find some classes and have fun!

Barnum is now playing until the 8 Sep. Click here for booking info and ticket availability

Photography by Pamela Raith