Afterschool Fools
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Wise Fool’s 14-week Afterschool Fools programs, where your child will immerse themselves in the enchanting world of the circus.
Our comprehensive programs offers expert instruction in a variety of circus arts, including aerial fabric, trapeze, stilt-walking, clowning, unicycling, juggling, acrobatics, and more. Students will develop new skills, build confidence, and express their creativity in a supportive and dynamic environment.
The program culminates in an exhilarating performance and “Show & Try” event, where families can witness and celebrate their children’s incredible progress. Enroll your child today and let them discover the thrill and wonder of circus arts with Wise Fool.
- Ages 4 - 6
- All levels welcome
- Ages 7 - 12
- All levels welcome
- Ages 11 - 15
- All levels welcome
- Ages 13 - 18
- 1 prior year of Wise Fool programming
Program Dates
The end of each program culminates with a Show & Try, held during the last week. The exact date/time of the Show & Try is communicated with parents and guardians over the course of the program.
Spring 2026
January 20 - May 1
Fall 2026
August 24 - December 18
Fall 2026 Programs
Session runs August 24 – December 18
Wee Kids
Ages 4 - 6
Introduce your little ones to the magic of circus! 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.
Details
- Wednesdays 3:45 - 4:45
- Ages 4 - 6 years old
- $342 for Session; $30 Drop-In
- Parents allowed to stay for first 10 minutes of each class as child adjusts
Prerequisites
- All levels welcome!
- Child must feel comfortable without parental oversight
Circus Exploration
Ages 7 - 12
Let your child dive into the exciting world of circus arts! 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.
Details
- Mondays 3:45 - 5:15pm (Fall)
- Ages 7 - 12
- $430 for 14 Weeks; $40 Drop-In
Prerequisites
- All levels welcome!
- No experience necessary
Teen Troupe
Ages 13 - 18
Take your teen’s circus skills to the next level!
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. Students are invited to perform at showcases and community gigs throughout the year.
Details
- Tuesdays 5:30 - 7pm + 1 weekly adult studio class of choice
- Ages 13 - 18
- $850 for Fall Session (Aug 25 - Dec 15)
Prerequisites
- Completion of 1 year of Wise Fool programming required
- Desire to improve as a performer
Teen/Tween Drop-In Classes
Ages 11 - 15
Drop-in circus fun for students with busy schedules. Students can either be enrolled for 11 weeks at a discount, or drop-in individual dates.
Mixed Aerials
Students will explore the fundamentals of trapeze, lyra, and aerial fabrics – building strength, coordination, and creativity in a supportive and fun environment.
- Tuesdays 4:30 - 5:30 pm
- Aug 25 - Dec 15, 2026
- $25 per Class; $300 for Session
Circus Foundations
Circus Foundations is where your child will build on the fundamentals of circus arts – including object manipulation, stilt walking, partner acrobatics, and more.
- Thursdays 4:30 - 5:30pm
- Aug 27 - Dec 17, 2026
- $25 per Class; $300 for Session
Currently Paused Programs
These programs aren’t currently on our schedule, but we’d love to offer them again. If you’re interested in a particular class or workshop, let us know by emailing youth@wisefoolnm.org
Take It To The Stage
Step into the spotlight!
This program focuses on the exciting process of act creation, culminating in a final performance. With guidance from experienced coaches, students will choose one or two circus disciplines they are most passionate about and work both independently and in groups to develop their acts. The class encourages self-motivation and creativity, as participants engage in theme brainstorming sessions and collaborative projects.
Details
- Ages 7 - 12
Prerequisites
- Completion of 2 sessions of Circus Explorations required
- Consistent attendance is crucial to ensure full participation in final show
- Must confirm child's availability for the performance at beginning of session
Circus Play for Families
Hands-on circus adventures for families!
This Saturday circus jam lets parents and children play in the circus together! Families will try stilt-walking, juggling, tumbling, partner acrobatics, hula hoops, aerial fabric, and trapeze in a safe and supportive environment. This class is an open studio format where Wise Fool coaches will be on-hand to support family play and experimentation.
Details
- Ages 4 and Up
- $30 Drop-In for Caretaker + Child
- $15 per additional child
Prerequisites
- All levels welcome!
- Parent or Guardian is expected to stay through class
