300 W. HARGETT ST, #40, RALEIGH, NC 919-714-9082
Pa'volar Circus + Aerial Performance Ensemble Program
Now Accepting Applications: Pa'Volar Student Circus Performance & Aerial Ensemble Program!
We’re thrilled to announce that applications are officially open for the Pa'Volar Student Circus Performance and Aerial Ensemble Program at Cirque de Vol! This program is designed for performers of all ages and skill levels who are ready to develop their skills and grow as part of a collaborative, performance-driven circus community. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned performer, this program is your opportunity to push your limits, create new work, and perform in a supportive, professional environment.
This program focuses on developing students to be performance-ready by honing their skills in act and show creation, building their portfolios, and working together in a collaborative process that mimics the professional circus world. If you're passionate about growing your circus and aerial abilities while preparing for real-world performances, this is the program for you!
Who Can Apply:
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Kids and Adults of All Ages – We offer separate tracks for children and adults, ensuring tailored attention and training for each group.
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All Skill Levels Welcome – Whether you’re new to circus arts or have years of experience, we encourage you to apply.
Prerequisites:
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Aerialists: Intermediate level or above (at least 1-2 years of consistent aerial practice).
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Other Circus/Performance Disciplines (partner acrobatics, handstands, dance, juggling, etc.): A basic foundation in your chosen discipline, with at least 1-2 years of practice and training.
How to Apply:
To be considered for the program, please complete the application and submit the following materials:
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A 2-minute video showcasing your skillset:
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A brief introduction of yourself
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A demonstration of your primary and/or secondary circus disciplines
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A showcase of your current skills and abilities
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Written Paragraph:
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Explain why you're interested in the Pa'Volar program.
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Share what you hope to learn and how this opportunity fits into your artistic journey.
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Application Deadline March 1st
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Throughout the program, participants will work on leveling up their technique in multiple Ground and Aerial disciplines while also working on Act Development and Ensemble Show Creation. Our training incorporates Circus, Dance, Aerial Technique, Physical Theatre, and more. From the colorful costumes and vibrant music to the theatre and storytelling we bring to life, Pa’Volar becomes so much more than something you do. You become a part of this high-energy, immersive, dynamic, and fun artistic community! The culmination of the program includes a produced performance presented to the public, providing valuable onstage experience and preparing students for the professional world.
The program includes two weekly classes, a two-hour Ensemble Creation period one Saturday per month, as well as an additional one-hour weekly skill training session in the major of your choice. Apparatus options include (Aerial Silks, Sling, Rope, Straps, Trapeze, or Lyra).
Pa’Volar participants also benefit from unlimited open gym times for individual training and rehearsal. We find that this helps sharpen skills and feed a determined spirit!
Pa’Volar Membership includes an additional weekly aerial series class on the apparatuses of your choice, unlimited open gym sessions, and all theatre, rehearsal and performance times.
Ambassador Work Trade Program Available:
We believe in making circus and aerial arts accessible to all. The Ambassador Work Trade Program provides an opportunity for those in need of financial assistance to participate in the program in exchange for work in areas like event support, marketing, and community outreach.
Application Deadline: March 1st.
This is your chance to develop your skills, collaborate with a vibrant community, and showcase your talents in a professional performance setting. Join us and become part of the Pa'Volar Student Circus Performance & Aerial Ensemble at Cirque de Vol—where artistry meets skill-building and performance excellence.
Coaches & Directors
Program Director
Flora Bare
Flora Bare is a director, choreographer, performer and professor of theatre and circus arts with a focus on the collaborative process. She has her Master of Fine Arts degree in Physical Theatre from The London International School of Performing Arts. Flora is a former nine time All-American and National Champion collegiate gymnast and Cal Aggie Hall of Fame inductee from the University of California, Davis. Flora has been an instructor at The National Centre for Circus Arts in London as well as working with The Actors Gymnasium in Chicago for six years as an acrobatic instructor for adults, youth and professional circus artists. She, along with the Charlotte based social circus company, Nouveau Sud are recent recipients of the Kennedy Center 2024 American College Theatre Festival Citizen Artist Award for the show Ricochet, which she directed. Flora relocated from Chicago to the Triangle with her husband and two children and is currently an adjunct professor at UNC Chapel Hill, teaching movement and Clown for the MFA Professional Acting Training Program. She last directed Paint Me This House of Love, which is currently running at Burning Coal Theatre Company. You can read more about her work at: florabarearts.com
Head Aerial Coach
Sebastian Jacome
With over a decade of experience in aerial arts and performance production, Sebastian brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our team. Originally from Colombia and raised in Venezuela, he began his aerial journey in 2014 and has become a respected aerialist and coach. His coaching blends technical precision, artistic expression, and injury prevention, ensuring students develop strength and fluidity. Sebastian relocated to North Carolina from Miami, where he taught, performed, and coached for many years. His background in social work and psychology enhances his ability to support students both physically and emotionally.
Houston is a Circus Director/Producer from Jamestown, NC. He began his circus career at age 9 after learning to juggle and quickly fell in love with the art form. His Speed Juggling Act has won awards across the U.S, including a Bronze Medal in the Juniors World Championships of Juggling in 2017 and First Place at the Atlanta Juggling Festival in 2018. Houston holds a degree from the UNC School of the Arts in Design and Production with a concentration in Set Design and founded his own company, Circus EVO, in 2020 amidst the pandemic. Since then, he has directed numerous projects presented across North Carolina and even in Canada. In February 2025, his original show, Solstice, is slated to complete a six-city tour across North Carolina and Tennessee.
Juggling Coach Houston Odum
JANUARY 2025 PA'VOLAR CAST
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