406Cirque strives to be a vibrant hub for an emerging circus community. We offer classes for every skill level in trapeze, aerial silks and hammock, juggling, stilt-walking, balance, stage presence, and many other disciplines. We also produce professional-quality shows starring our students, instructors, and community members.
We seek fiscal sponsorship to make our programs more accessible. Each year, we offer over $5000 in discounts to include families regardless of their ability to pay. Our fundraisers make it possible to reduce costs to our students, though no funds are directly given to families. Donations pay for the cost of the program incurred by the individual's involvement. Additionally, our free community events (such as the farmers market) cost us $12,000 per season. To date, we have been operating at a loss for these programs, however this is unsustainable, especially if we want to equitably pay our couches and performers (We do!).
In 2023, we created two original productions (Spooktacular and A Circus Carol). These shows were a pivotal moment in our development, and a first step towards fulfilling our dream of having a year-round company. Fiscal sponsorship will allow us to rent space for year-round training and rehearsal with our adult ensemble, as well pay performers equitably.
We are proud to be recognized by our community as fun entertainment, and are often asked to support community organizations by performing at their events…often below market rate. We are happy to support our neighbors at the Montana Cancer Connections or Gallatin Valley Farm to School….and we need to pay our artists! Donations are part of a pay-it-forward model so that we can offer events that are free to our community members, without burdening our artists.
At 406Cirque, we have 4 core values that guide all aspects of our programs. The values of generosity, professionalism, respect, and pleasure serve not only to develop our art, but to develop ourselves.
Generosity
406Cirque coaches show up ready to share their full expertise with no reserves. We respect and understand the developmental stage of each student, from preschool to adult. We are aware of the tremendous act of vulnerability and generosity that means jumping on stage and sharing ourselves as performers. We honor and respect that in every performer, regardless of their age.
Professionalism
For Coaches: Strive to be a role model and positive influence on the students. Coaches are aware that they are not only teaching technique, but also social skills.
For Students: Arrive ready to work and play; taking care of equipment; looking for opportunities to be proactive in helping the ensemble and encouraging others.
Respect and Diversity
In any circus lot, you'll meet people from all over the world and hear multiple languages being spoken. 406Cirque is no different. Our coaches come from different countries (Venezuela, France, U.S.A.) and performance backgrounds. Only through our diversity can we truly embody the richness of circus arts. 406Cirque is committed to creating spaces in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. Each individual has the right to participate in an atmosphere that promotes equal opportunities and prohibits discriminatory practices and abusive behavior. In practice, this means challenging assumptions about what an individual or a group can achieve. This includes breaking gender norms of strength and grace, creating adaptive programming for students of all abilities, and modeling lifelong learning.
Pedagogy of Pleasure
We celebrate small goals and accomplishments. We don't take for granted the excitement of catching a Diabolo for the first time, or doing your first five-ball flash. Traditional circus education focuses on fixing (or fixating on) mistakes. At 406Cirque we place the focus on small achievements that pave the way towards skill development. We understand that failure is the proof that one is trying something new.
In addition to the core values, 406Ciruqe is guided by 3 rules. Whether a student is participating for 10 minutes at a community event or is part of our youth troupe, we take the time to make sure they understand these rules of Safety First ; Encourage yourself and encourage others; have fun!
Safety First :Safety includes physical and emotional safety. We believe that confidence is a critical safety element. It is only from a place of emotional wellbeing that students can learn. Safety also includes practical elements specific to each training area.
Encourage Yourself and Others : At 406Cirque we are never in competition with other students, always in collaboration. We want to change the world by creating a community that practices positive self talk. This is about creating an organization that celebrates our whole selves, and understands that pushing beyond our comfort zone also requires a conscious exercise of self-encouragement.
Have Fun!: We believe in the power of play. Having Fun as a fundamental aspect of everything we do, by encouraging creativity, laughter, and joyful exploration of circus skills. By prioritizing enjoyment, playfulness, and a positive atmosphere for all participants, we foster a culture in which discipline and hard work stem from the things we enjoy the most.
