Region's circus school opens in new south-end space

The Barrie Circus School opened a new south-end location at 100 Caplan Ave., Unit 9 and held an open house where students performed aerial silks and families tried the equipment.

The Barrie Circus School opened a new south-end location at 100 Caplan Ave., Unit 9 and held an open house this past weekend. The event featured student performances set to music and opportunities for families and children to try aerial equipment such as silks and hoops. The school has operated since 2012 and offers programming for a wide range of ages. Tara Leslie is head coach and director of training and has about 15 years of coaching experience. At the open house: - The facility was busy with young families and dozens of children attending the open house. - Students performed aerial silks and hoops, twirling and spinning above the floor in choreographed routines set to music. - Tara Leslie, head coach and director of training, began coaching at age 14 and has roughly 15 years of experience coaching at clubs in Ontario. - The school serves all ages; one student is reported as being 72 and began training two years ago, and Leslie’s mother began training at 52. - Coach and events co-ordinator Sarah Sherman began as a student in 2015 and later took on coaching and coordination roles. - A parent, Shaun Elliot, brought his son Henry to try the silks after Henry lost interest in soccer and the family said he enjoyed the aerial activities. Summary: The open house showcased the school's aerial arts programs and drew families to watch performances and try equipment. Coaches emphasized opportunities for confidence-building and movement that can suit varied ages and backgrounds. Undetermined at this time.