Μια ενδιαφέρουσα προσπάθεια στο Portland, Oregon…
Circus Project for homeless kids
The Circus Project is a unique program which serves Portland’s homeless and at-risk youth. We aim to empower youth physically, emotionally, and intellectually through the development of highly skilled circus and theatrical performances.
We strive to expand the definition of art beyond that of the various disciplines to encompass a way of looking at the world, appreciating diversity, and approaching conflict. Training informs the identity of participants on stage, how they relate to others, and how they contribute to the society in which they live.
Classes focus on artistic, skill, and personal development. Circus, theater, dance, music, and creativity are integrated with life skills such as communication, teamwork, responsibility, and respect. Issues that arise in group discussions are used to inform choreography. Improvisation serves as a springboard for personal sharing. While instructors provide the skill base and process facilitation, the material with which they work comes from the youth themselves: the struggles they face, their dreams, and their relationships. Their work over the course of a year culminates in performances which engage the larger Portland community.
In addition, we provide internships and career opportunities in performance and coaching. Youth who complete the initial year-long training period will have the opportunity to continue with The Circus Project as interns, and later as paid faculty responsible for recruiting and mentoring other street, at-risk, and community youth. If sufficient resources are made available, youth will also have the option to establish their own touring company.
We recognize that in order to engage in the physical and emotional demands of training, basic needs must be addressed. Thus, youth participants receive healthy food, exercise clothing, and memberships to Friendly House Community Center. Friendly House offers a daily respite from the hardships of street life in addition to a gym, showers, and internet access. We also encourage youth to connect with other non-profits serving similar demographics and provide referrals to night shelters.