Contemporary Circus and Physical Theatre

Learn the foundations of aerial, acrobatics, and juggling alongside classes in theatre, fitness and context, before moving on to specialise in your chosen discipline.

• Interdisciplinary curriculum

• Practical skill development

• Industry-Relevant Collaborations

Taught by Circomedia, the Foundation degree in Contemporary Circus and Physical Theatre stands out with its unique blend of practical skills development, theoretical learning and performance-based course work across multiple disciplines.

Students engage in a comprehensive and creative curriculum that combines circus arts, physical theatre and contemporary performance techniques. This combination encourages the development of a well-rounded skill set, preparing graduates to excel in a variety of artistic disciplines and contribute to the evolving landscape of contemporary performance.

A key benefit of the programme is its emphasis on hands-on, practical skill development. Students can hone their physical abilities through rigorous training in circus arts and physical theatre, supported by experienced instructors and state-of-the-art facilities. This practical focus ensures that graduates not only gain a solid theoretical knowledge but also develop the physical expertise necessary for successful careers in the dynamic and demanding field of contemporary circus and physical theatre, and the wider performing arts industry.

This Foundation degree programme goes the extra mile by establishing strategic partnerships and collaborations with industry professionals and organisations. Through guest lectures, workshops, and collaborative projects, students benefit from direct exposure to the current trends, opportunities and demands of the contemporary circus and physical theatre industry.

This approach ensures that graduates are not only academically proficient but also well-connected and prepared to navigate the professional landscape upon completing their degree. There is the opportunity to progress to the top-up BA year if students complete the FdA and show a dedication to their further development as performers and makers.

Taught by Circomedia, Bristol
Step into the heart of Bristol's creative scene and connect with like-minded artists at Circomedia.

This course is delivered by Circomedia in collaboration with Bath Spa University.

Year 1
The Foundation Degree begins with an intensive introduction to aerial, acrobatics, and juggling. After this introductory period, students specialise in two of these skill areas alongside classes in physical theatre, movement, fitness and conditioning, contextual studies and critical thinking.

Performance opportunities include the Spring and Summer Projects which are solo and group pieces allowing students to explore the integration of circus and physical theatre and perform Street Theatre shows at local and national events.

Towards the end of the first year, students work alongside MA Directing students to develop a large ensemble show performed at our city centre performance venue.

Year 2
In the second year of the course, students specialise in more detail as they receive intensive teaching in just one discipline.

They also explore performance styles such as clown, burlesque, stand-up comedy, narrative circus, and circus for camera in the Stylistic Forms module.

Essential employability skills are developed as students participate in teacher training, produce a website, CV and showreel, and learn the essentials of becoming a self-employed performer.

Input and inspiration is delivered throughout the year by way of a series of seminars by a wide range of visiting industry professionals.

The year ends with Ensemble shows, where students work in groups to devise their own contemporary circus shows which are performed to a public audience at our city centre performance venue.

Students will be assessed through a combination of individual and ensemble performances, creative development, reflective journaling and written assignments.