Circus Culture, which opened in Press Bay Alley in 2015, has provided a space for the community to learn various circus activities for over a decade, including classes in aerial, acrobatics, juggling, unicycling, and more.
The Student Experience
“We have a curriculum that supports the development of students. People can take ownership of what they want from us and take risks in their own way. It creates this safe space where we’re offering different choices, and they can choose what fits best for them,” said Studio Manager Claire Dehm.
With formal classes starting for an age group as young as toddlers, Circus Culture attracts a diverse range of students from the area, including those from Ithaca College and the ICircus club, Cornell University, and various local Ithaca elementary schools.
Elementary school student Magnolia Rakow has been coming to Circus Culture for three years. Rakow explained her love for circus classes, stating, “As much as I love the physical challenge, it’s also partially for me about the community and all the wonderful teachers and peers that I’ve gained from circus that I wouldn’t have had without this.”
Circus Culture is primarily an education-based space for recreational classes and camps, but also features several performance troupes. The organization partners with local venues for performances, including the Ithaca Children’s Garden, The Cherry Arts, and the Hangar Theatre, shared Dehm.
True Inclusivity For All
Circus Culture is committed to providing equal opportunity for circus education to all community members, aiming for every student to feel valued and welcomed, as stated on the company’s website.
“Historically, the circus thrives on diversity. And so if everyone did the same thing, it wouldn’t be a circus,” said Dehm.
This mission requires a consistent long-term commitment to change, something that the company shares as a promise. Circus Culture acknowledges there is a long road to be paved to reach inclusion, stating a commitment to fight against ableism, promote visibility for all body sizes, support the LGBTQIA+ community, and acknowledge spaces that have been built on stolen lands.
Anti-Racism Policy
Demonstrated by a sign displayed on the front door, Circus Culture continues to support the Black Lives Matter movement.
This support is explained further on the company website, referencing a commitment to “prioritizing and amplifying the fight for racial and social justice, and specifically for the Black community.”
As the organization works to be anti-racist, staff members integrate intersectionality into their weekly training, along with donating to important key organizations like the Traditional Center for Indigenous Knowledge and Healing weekly.
Eliminating Financial Barriers
The company’s mission statement not only applies to identity and ability, but also to students’ financial status.
“We always offer financial aid and payment plans to anyone who reaches out. We don’t want finances to be a barrier. Last year, we gave away over $18,000 in scholarships. If you’re a person interested in taking classes but feel like finances are a barrier, you can reach out, and we can help you make your circus dreams come true,” said Dehm.
Consistently continuing outreach to more students, Circus Cultures Offsite Opportunities Manager Emily Babin occasionally partners with school districts and classrooms for events.
“I have gotten to do a lot of great stuff with school districts for specific trick teacher trainings, and have worked with classrooms there. I’ve additionally gotten to teach a neurodivergent focused circus class, which I really love to give kids opportunities to play. We have a nice space that is open for whatever you want to do at circus,” said Babin.
Wherever community members’ circus interests may lie, and at whatever skill level students stumble upon Circus Culture, there is a community to be joined in Press Bay Alley.
“I’m like very invested in circus and how it can change the world,” said Dehm.
