Workshops

Current Workshop Offerings


 

Spinning and Sequencing on Chains with Alec Stoddard

Date: Sunday, 12/8/2024

From: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Spinning on looped chains makes for gorgeous flowing shapes that weave seemingly effortlessly from one to the next, creating a mesmerizing, “how’d that get there?!” effect for viewers. For performers, this one’s a satisfying brain-teaser!
 

Designed for aerialists with a well-developed practice; having chains experience is helpful, but not a requirement. We will be exploring types of spinning with weight centered and off-center, and how to use that spin to release one of the chains, then recapture it. We’ll also examine how to provide greater proprioceptive support for generating spin and balancing in the chains with a fast spin.

Recommended equipment: Clothing that you can move freely in, covers knee and armpits, and has no embellishments like zippers that can get caught between you and the chains (ow!). Trapeze boots are a huge plus, and some folks will find using gloves helpful. Socks are not recommended because they can slip when standing. Plain rock rosin works best on chains, and can be further stick-ified with some hand sanitizer.

Training Level: Intermediate/Advanced
Age: 12 and up are welcome (or by invitation)
Prerequisites: Students should be comfortable with multiple inversions and/or pullovers, and possess good spin tolerance!

 

Dancing with Danger: Intro to Bullwhips with Alec Stoddard

Date: 12/8/2024

From: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Learn to crack a whip! In this course, we’ll cover bullwhip anatomy and physics, as well as beginner skills such as basic forward and overhead throws. We’ll combine these skills with dance transitions like body wrapping to create a short combination. For those who want to try (both) hands at dual-wielding, we’ll also cover Florentine technique, or weaving.

 

Note: This class carries the risk of getting popped with a whip! Clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible is recommended. You will be provided with safety glasses, but are also welcome to bring your own eye protection! If loud popping sounds make your nervous system nervous, some hearing protection like Loops are also recommended.
 
Training Level: Beginner
Age: 16 and up are welcome (or by invitation)
Prerequisites: None
 

Pricing for Workshops with Alec Stoddard

Bullwhips: $60
Chains: $90
Both Workshops: $140 (Save $10)
Early Bird (Until 11/14): $10 off!
 
 
Cancellation Policy:
50% Refund up to one week prior
No Refunds within 1 week of workshop
 
Masks, while not required, are highly recommended for these workshops. Please help keep each other safe during winter viral surges.

SUMMER CIRCUS CELEBRATION 2025 —  Aug 8 – 10, 2025 

Look for Workshop and Act Applications Coming Spring 2025

 


Kinetic Arts Center accepts workshop proposals year-round from resident and visiting teaching artists.  Please reach out to Shaly@KineticArtsCenter.com if you want to pitch a workshop idea.  We strive to produce workshops that speak to everybody at every skill level.  Perhaps you need a little inspiration to refine an act you’ve been working on FOREVER. Or, maybe you have been trying to summon the courage to register for one of our classes but you have felt a bit uncertain. Whether beginner or professional, you will find an enriching circus experience at Kinetic Arts Center!