Wāhine in Circus Arts

About

WHAT? Wāhine in Circus Arts is a free 12 week social circus arts project designed for nā wāhine ʻōiwi and nā kaikamāhine ʻōiwi (native Hawaiian women ages 18 + and native Hawaiian girls ages 13+). Wāhine in Circus Arts aims to build and strengthen community ties through dance/movement classes and shared-skill building in aerial arts. The program's free access supports an effort to offset inequalities based on gender and economics, and increase artistic and professional opportunities in aerial arts. Participants will be offered classes in aerial circus, flexibility, and ground movement. The program will conclude with an optional hō’ike to share your aerial progress with friends and family. WHO? This free program is for native Hawaiian women and girls age 13+, open to those with any level of experience, including none! This program could offer an expansion opportunity for native Hawaiian artists and athletes who already have a movement practice, be it hula, gymnastics, wrestling, martial arts, or dance of any kind. WHY AERIAL ARTS? At our studio, aerial arts is grounded in body positivity, curiosity, and self exploration. We focus on nurturing a positive connection to one’s body in all shapes and sizes, allowing us to freely move and express in a unique way. Aerial arts training and performance can be a vehicle to tell a story, keep ourselves and community healthy and vibrant - all while learning a new exciting skill! Aerial Arts Hawai'i will continue support for the Wāhine in Circus Arts participants after this three-month pilot program through scholarship support, work-study, teacher training, performance possibilities, and other creative opportunities. With support from the Women's Fund of Hawai'i, Aerial Arts Hawaii is proud to make this special offering to increase access to and participation in circus arts in East Hawai’i. FAQ IS IT OKAY IF I HAVE NO AERIAL EXPERIENCE? Yes! This is an intro friendly program. WHY IS THIS PROGRAM ONLY FOR NATIVE HAWAIIAN WOMEN/GIRLS? This program is an effort to specifically engage with and support Hawaiian women interested in circus arts. I DONT IDENTIFY AS NATIVE HAWAIIAN, CAN I REGISTER? This is for female-identifying native Hawaiians; we are not here to interrogate identity, and trust that those who do not identify as native Hawaiian will refrain from registering. CAN I ATTEND JUST ONCE A WEEK? We look for participants who can commit to the two-day schedule, with understanding absences may occur.