NYCAA's Professional Training Program in Circus Arts provides students with the opportunity to build a solid foundation in both technical as well as artistic skills in contemporary circus arts. Natural athleticism, creativity and talent are not enough - these qualities alone cannot guarantee success in a career in circus arts. Preparing for a successful career in contemporary circus requires a structured approach to training and the knowledge to understand the rational and irrational aspects of the marketplace.
The Professional Training program is comprised of three consecutive levels of certification. In the first level, students are provided with the skills and abilities necessary for success in the second level and exposed to a broad range of artistic possibilities so that they can properly choose their professional concentration. Upon acceptance to the second level, students choose a concentration in one of four tracks, Performance, Teaching, Technical or Creative; building strong skills and abilities and honing their technique. In the third level, students focus on developing their body of work and refining their artistry in their chosen concentration.
The Professional Training courses will be smaller, more focused and faster-moving than those in the Recreational program. Students will receive individual progress reports, access to information about professional employment opportunities and placement assistance. The curriculum is designed for skill levels ranging from novice to elite. The goal of each course is to build competency in the technical and creative aspects of its respective art form.