Circomedia

Circomedia is the leading centre for circus with physical theatre in Europe.

Circomedia was founded over ten years ago by physical theatre expert, Bim Mason and choreographer and performer Helen Crocker. It rose out of the ashes of Fooltime, Britain’s first ever circus school – and ever since has attracted students from all over the world. It is different from many circus schools as there is a heavy emphasis on combining traditional circus skills with physical theatre and creativity. It is this approach to performance that has led to Circomedia being acknowledged as a centre of excellence worldwide.

Circomedia is based in Bristol, a vibrant city with perhaps the highest concentration of circus and theatre performers in the UK. The school has two sites; The leafy premises of a former Victorian school on the outskirts of Bristol and the recently restored St Paul's Church in Portland Square. This new centre in the heart of the city has just been refurbished by the Church's Conservation Trust thanks to a 2.3 million GBP Heritage Lottery Grant. Circomedia have installed a purpose built permanent flying trapeze rig and sprung dance floor. This is the first development of its kind in Europe and it has created an exceptional space for training, performance and events.

A centre of excellence in its field Circomedia is an umbrella organisation incorporating a wide range of activities:

Foundation Degree (FdA) in Contemporary Circus & Physical Performance
A two year professional programme integrating circus and physical performance through practical training and applied theoretical research.  This degree is run in partnership with Bath Spa University.

Act Creation Course
A 10 week course in creating and promoting a circus related act or physical theatre piece.

Teacher Training Course
This is a one year part-time course for students who have already completed a long term training course in circus skills.

Two Year BTEC Course
This two year course will provide a broad introduction and foundation in physical performance and circus skills.

Part Time Evening Classes
Circomedia has recently launched a programme of adult evening classes open to the general public. There's something for everyone from the complete beginner to the seasoned professional.

Circomedia also provides circus workshops, runs an entertainment agency and provides teambuilding opportunities.