Back to school = back to circus

While we’re still basking in the long days of summer, the new school year will be here before we know it, and along with it, the start of our Afterschool Fools programs. Registration for these is now open—see details below.

Afterschool Fools: Circus Explorations

Ages: 7-12
Cost: $40 per drop-in; $460 for entire session + Show & Try
Dates: Aug. 24–Dec. 14
Time: Mondays, 3:45pm – 5:15pm
Prerequisites: No experience necessary

Dive into the exciting world of circus arts with Wise Fool’s Circus Exploration class for ages 7-12. Perfect for beginners, no prior experience is necessary.

Each class begins with a check-in, followed by a game or warmup to get everyone moving. Each week, students will focus on a new circus discipline, including stilt-walking, aerial fabric, trapeze, acrobalance, and clowning, rotating through each discipline at least twice.

This dynamic program offers a safe and supportive environment where youth of all levels can learn, play, and explore their creativity. Enroll your child today and let them discover the joy and excitement of circus arts with Wise Fool!

Afterschool Fools: Teen/Tween Aerials

Ages: 11 – 15 year old
Cost: $25 per drop-in; $300 for the entire session
Dates: Aug. 25–Dec. 15
Time: Tuesdays, 4:30 – 5:30pm

For students ages 11 – 15 of all experience levels. Students will explore the fundamentals of trapeze, lyra, and aerial fabrics – building strength, coordination, and creativity in a supportive and fun environment.

Students can choose which apparatus they’d like to focus on, or try them all! Starting with basic grips, climbs, and shapes, students will gradually advance to more complex tricks and sequences as the series continues. Our supportive environment fosters creativity and confidence, allowing each student to grow at their own pace while working toward new challenges.

Afterschool Fools: Teen Troupe

Ages: 13-18 years old
Cost: $850 for the entire session; drop-ins not permitted
Dates: Aug. 25–Dec. 15
Time: Tuesdays, 5:30 – 7pm + 1 weekly studio class of choice
Prerequisites/Requirements: Completion of 1 year of Wise Fool programming required.

Join Wise Fool’s Teen Troupe for ages 13-18 and take your circus skills to the next level. Designed for students with at least one year of Wise Fool programming, this advanced program offers a deep dive into circus arts and performance.

Participants will commit to taking one weekly adult class in their chosen discipline, such as fabric, trapeze, acrobalance, or unicycling, while also meeting weekly as a group to refine their performance skills and enhance their strength and flexibility. Over the summer, students can further hone their abilities by taking conditioning, flexibility, or acro classes and practicing in open studio sessions.

Troupe members will showcase their talents in community performances, gaining invaluable experience as professional circus artists. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in paid performances, with proceeds helping to offset tuition and provide scholarships. The session culminates in a final performance, highlighting the incredible progress and dedication of each participant. Enroll in Wise Fool’s Teen Troupe and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of circus performance!

Afterschool Fools: Wee Kids

Ages: 4-6 years old
Cost: $30 per drop-in; $342 for the entire session
Dates: Aug. 26–Dec. 16
Time: Wednesdays, 3:45 – 4:45pm
Requirements: Child must feel comfortable without parental oversight. 

Introduce your little ones to the magic of the circus with Wise Fool’s Wee Kids class for ages 4-6. Designed for young adventurers, this program fosters creative movement and physical literacy in a fun, supportive environment.

Each class begins with an engaging obstacle course, followed by a game and instruction in one or two circus disciplines. These include aerial fabric, trapeze, hula hoops, juggling balls and scarves, clowning, stilt walking, and more.

To ensure a smooth transition, parents are welcome to stay for the first ten minutes of each class, and for the initial two sessions if needed. Enroll your child today and watch them jump, swing, and laugh their way through an exciting circus adventure with Wise Fool!

Afterschool Fools: Teen/Tween Circus Foundations

Ages: 11 – 15 year old
Cost: $25 per Drop-In; $300 for the entire session
Dates: Aug. 27–Dec. 17
Time: Thursdays 4:30 – 5:30pm

Open to ages 11 – 15, Circus Foundations is where your teen/tween will build on the fundamentals of circus arts. Students will explore object manipulation, stilt walking, partner acrobatics, and more – learning how to move with strength, coordination, and trust. This class focuses on fundamentals, creativity, and teamwork, all in a supportive environment that encourages curiosity, risk-taking, and finding your own style.