Every child has a dream of running away to join the circus, and for over 60 years, Florida State University has been offering it’s students the second best thing- they can join the circus AND get a college degree! Right next to our famous Doak Campbell Stadium, you can find the Jack Haksin Circus complex. The yellow and red big top catches the eye of all who pass by, but the real magic goes on inside of the massive tent. Florida State’s unique circus program is one of only two collegiate circuses in the United States and the only one in which students are responsible for every aspect of the show’s creation (and the only one with a big top!). In the month of April, the FSU Flying High Circus performed their annual spring hometown showcase, which always features dazzling acts of strength, flexibility, and bravery. This year, the show took audiences Around the World with mesmerizing routines that included costumes, music, and choreography inspired by all different destinations. The students walked on ropes, poles, balance beams, and even each other- while doing multiple flips or configuring their bodies into contorted positions. They preformed amazing acrobatic skills on trampolines and the floor, even incorporating roller skates and unicycles! If that isn’t exciting enough, then the aerial routines taking place 30 feet above the ground may have grasped your attention. The students performing on the Mexican cloud swing, double trapeze, cradle, web, and lyra made the audience hold their breath each time they dramatically fell into a new trick. Closing out the show were the famous Flying Seminoles, who take their talents to the flying trapeze. They flew gracefully through the air, swinging from one bar to the next with tremendous ease. It’s hard to believe that all of the performers are not only amateurs, but could be sitting next to you in your 9am biology class!
To create the Around the World production, students put in countless hours of hard work every week perfecting their acts as well as working hands-on with the rigging and other show aspects. According to sophomore performer Tyler Routley, the time commitment is well worth it. He says, “The time you spend together forms some of the best friendships you can have throughout college.” For those interested in auditioning next fall, don’t be scared if you can’t put your feet behind your head, eat fire, or walk on a tightrope right now! Tyler explains that, “The selection process each year places members in the acts that they would be most suited for, regardless of background, and we learn our acts from there, many with no clue how to start before the first practice!”
It is highly suggested that every student place an FSU Circus show on his or her college bucket list. Besides the fact that is an enjoyable experience, the Flying High Circus is a unique tradition on this campus and yet another reason why FSU provides a college experience that is one of a kind!