LAKE PLACID CENTER for the ARTS

Circus with Sammy Aug 19-23rd 9:30-12:00 ages 7-13

Is a play-based circus program in which participants are encouraged to use simple breathing techniques and body alignment alongside the use of a variety of props, such as hula hoops, poi, batons, ribbons, staves, levitation wands, etc. Throughout this class, students are gently encouraged to have fun and let go of inhibition, to engage with the props and each other as a way to increase the awareness of and connection with their own bodies and minds and with each other. Students are invited to explore how the use of the props unlocks somatic self-knowing and allows them to tap into self-awareness in a way they may not have experienced before. Skills are taught progressively, increasing in difficulty from basic to advanced, as students demonstrate competency.

Bio:

Sammy Yelle is a nature-loving, homeschooling Mother of two young boys as well as a Circus Arts professional and mindfulness practitioner of over 14 years. She is the owner-operator of Vestopia Hoops, LLC. Throughout her career, which involves performing and teaching both kids and adults from 6 months to 90 years old, she aspires to spread joy, promote confidence, and share her love for the circus and movement arts.

 She began her movement and performance journey as a child. Often persuading the neighbor children to perform in dance based shows she created for their families. In 2007 she picked up a hula hoop, changing her life path. She started performing the summer of 2008 in the Catskills with a band named Mazmyth. Together they performed at small hole-in-the-wall venues as well as big ones like the Gramercy Theater in NYC and Main stage at Bamboozle. Moving to Boston after college, she went on to practice many more circus disciplines. Having spent many years practicing yoga under several knowledgeable instructors to help with her own alignment and posture, she incorporates much of that into her own performance style and teaching. 

In April of 2021 she transitioned from living and performing on the road, to putting down roots and becoming a steward of a small piece of the beautiful Adirondack Park. Since then, she has donated countless hours of performing and teaching time at many local live music and town events throughout our region, in the hopes that her art would boost our community's spirits during these difficult COVID times. The circus arts and dance lifestyle has made such a positive impact on her life, which is why she invites anyone curious or in need of some uplifting to try out a prop. She loves making every day a Circus day!

Cancellation Policy

Contact us at least 6 business days before the camp start date, and we will refund the cost of the program minus a 15% enrollment fee.

Contact us 5 business days or less before the camp start date, and we will offer class credit only.