Join the National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA), the pioneering organization at the forefront of contemporary circus arts training in Australia, as they host The Australian Circus Summit on October 19th and 20th. This landmark event aims to foster robust partnerships, cultivate relationships, and shape the future of circus engagement, both for artists and audiences.

The Australian Circus Summit stands as a global gathering, beckoning delegates to convene at NICA’s purpose-built circus venue for two days of immersive discussions. These conversations are set to challenge and inspire prevailing industry perspectives, centering around the theme of “The Moving State of Circus.”

Under this year’s theme, “The Moving State of Circus,” the summit seeks to explore innovative approaches to integrate circus performances into diverse venues and push the boundaries of artistic expression.

Prepare to embark on an unprecedented journey as the epicenter of the circus world hosts this groundbreaking event at NICA. The summit aims to debunk the notion of circus as a ‘lesser relative’ in the performing arts arena, endeavoring to unite the sector by bridging gaps between artists, presenters, producers, funders, and supporters. Through groundbreaking collaborations and connections, attendees will delve into fresh ways to seamlessly integrate circus performances into various venues while expanding artistic horizons.

With a limited capacity of 200, this intimate event will bring together independent circus artists, producers, festival programmers, venue presenters, and the NICA community. The goal is to dismantle industry barriers and foster invaluable networking opportunities.

The summit’s inaugural day will feature Darcy Grant, the esteemed artistic director of Gravity and Other Myths, and a founding member of the genre-defying Circa. Globally recognized as a pioneer in this movement, Grant’s insights promise to set the tone for the event.

The closing keynote speaker, Anna Robb, Executive Producer of Our Legacy Creations, boasts an impressive career working with industry giants like Cirque du Soleil, Franco Dragone Entertainment Group, and the Sydney Opera House. Her presentation, titled “A Big Top of an Idea,” explores how even a small idea can transform into the next big sensation.

Additional speakers include Simon Abrahams, CEO & Creative Director of the Melbourne Fringe Festival; Steph Cox, Executive Director of Women’s Circus; Nicole Beyer, Executive Director of Theatre Network Australia; Stacy Clark, CEO of Circus Talk; Laura Colby, President of Elsie Management from the US; Aaron Marquise, Coordinator for the International Market of Contemporary Circus (MICC) TOHU from Quebec, and many more.

Over the course of two days, attendees will delve into sessions covering topics such as how venues, festivals, and producers can support independent artists, the commercial adaptability of performances, and innovative approaches to fundraising. With nearly 20 sessions and breakout discussions scheduled, there will be ample opportunities for learning and networking.

For a comprehensive speaker lineup and detailed program, visit the official summit website at: https://nica.com.au/summit23.