Join us for an act creation workshop designed to help you step on stage with confidence. Bring your work-in-progress act, and we’ll provide the tools to add polish, presence, and that extra something that helps you stand out—whether you’re performing at a local studio showcase, a competition, or a paid engagement.
Your creative journey begins before you arrive with a virtual meeting with the Director, plus feedback on your work-in-progress act. You’ll also receive access to our Going Pro virtual library, featuring guidance on music selection, act structure, and more.
Then you’ll join us at NECCA for in-person classes ranging from one-on-one lessons to group creative activities. From there, we’ll guide you through the full show creation and production process, giving you hands-on experience in everything needed to confidently bring your circus skills to the center ring.
You’ll leave with a polished act you can perform with confidence, along with video and photos from both the dress rehearsal and the final show.
Important Dates
2026 is now cancelled. 2027 dates are TBD. *See below for a general calendar of important dates.
You do not need a full act video for the initial application, only a video of skills and sequences. An ‘act in progress’ video is due at a later date.
*Subject to change.
What You’ll Get
You will get so much from this workshop! Students receive one-on-one coaching, real-world show experience, and practical tools to take an act from early idea to confident, professional performance.
The Investment
The Spotlight Act Creation Workshop includes video and photos of your performance.
Total Program Cost: 2027 TBD
Ready to apply? Here’s what you need to know about eligibility, deadlines, and next steps.
That’s it!
This workshop is for ages 16 and up. Ages 14 and up are welcome to apply and will meet with the Program Director as part of the application process.
I have never performed circus arts before, is this for me?
Then this is the perfect workshop for you! We’ll guide you through the experience from the beginning to when you step on stage with information on how to find music, pick a costume, build an act and be prepared for show day rehearsals.
What if I can’t perform in the show due to injury, illness, etc?
There will be no refund once you begin the workshop. But you can still benefit from the virtual meeting and guidance of the pre-show act review even if you are not able to be in the final performance.
I want to be lifted and lowered during my aerial act, is that possible?
Great! We have mechanical advantage systems. Performers will work with our puller, or can make arrangements for their puller to be part of the rehearsals.
What mats are available and am I required to use them?
For basic flooring we have the option of marley over concrete, or a black ‘tatami’ foam bonded mat system that is the size of the stage. Aerialists are required to use the ‘tatami’ mat at a minimum, and are highly encouraged to use thicker mats as well, including panel mats, 8″ landing mats and a 3′ deep ‘pit’ mat.
How will I receive my video and photo?
At the dress rehearsal and performance there will be a videographer and a photographer. You will choose which act run was your best, and will receive a video of your act to download around Aug 15. All the photos will be shared on SmugMug for you to download for free.
What are people saying about their act creation experience at NECCA?
“In terms of social media, the feedback from my NECCA act was the best I’ve received in my entire performing career. It also went viral on Instagram and TikTok, with over 10,000 views! This wouldn’t be possible without your critique, focus and determination in re-choreographing my act… especially with the time crunch.”
“I am thankful for your directness, kindness and honesty in the creation process. This allowed me to reach a new part of myself left previously unknown.”
“Watching the other acts was such a welcome dose of inspiration, and the other artists I met as people really made me want to become more involved in the circus world as a whole.”
Please join us in thanking these companies for their support of NECCA.
Provide high-quality circus arts training for students and artists while facilitating greater access and programming to everyone.
EIN #: 26-0495118
