NECCA is founded by Elsie Smith and Serenity Smith Forchion and receives its 501(c)(3) status as a nonprofit circus arts education facility. For several years previous to this, circus arts instruction was provided under the name of Nimble Arts. Elsie and Serenity felt it was vital for the students and the community for NECCA to take this next step and grow into a nonprofit. Classes were taught with a staff of approximately 10 coaches at the Cotton Mill and the New England Youth Theater in Brattleboro, VT. The original Professional Track or “ProTrack” program began in 2007 as well, beginning NECCA’s reputation of successfully preparing professional circus artists for careers in circus.

NECCA received its 501(c)(3) not for profit status in December 2007 and can accept tax deductible donations. The incorporation of NECCA and the filing of not for profit papers was the culmination of much work from a supportive community, school members and a Board of Directors who believed that it was an important next step in the building of an internationally recognized yet locally vital circus center.

NECCA grows into 4 studios at the Cotton Mill as well as the Winston-Prouty gymnasium and has a staff of around 35. Land was purchased at Town Crier Dr, which would be the future home of NECCA’s custom trapezium. The outdoor Flying Trapeze rig moved to this site to take advantage of the amazing space and location.

FlyTeam, professional Flying Trapeze program begins.