3 down, just one more to go! The first three shows of the Lone Star Circus School’s student show Ice Cream have been amazing. Of course, I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s show because I have three acts in that one. 

As usual, I can’t begin to tell you what I liked best about the Saturday night show, although Annika Cline and Dominique Azan were great on silks. They’re in my advanced circus class, and I’ve seen their act a lot of times — but when they’re in costume, with headdresses and jewels on their faces, it’s show business. Not just a couple of talented teenagers at the gym. So it’s special when the lights come on.

Here are some photos my grandma took of the show. (The only bad part about being in a show is that you only ever get to see it on video or during rehearsals — because you’re backstage, being quiet and warming up, while the show is actually happening.)     

The Lone Star Circus got a new contortion coach this year.  Her name is Vita Bachman, and she’s a very famous circus performer. Everyone in the advanced circus class has to take a half hour contortion class on Saturday morning. Fanny Kerwich, the director, says it’s good for us to build strength and our core muscles.

I believe Fanny, because my muscles are sore after every class. But I will never be a graceful, flexible contortionist. But Vita, Laura Smith, and Cassondra — as well as our other coaches Kelly Shea, Alora Scavella, and Truett Adams — have certainly taught me more than I ever thought I’d learn.

But when I saw Gitana (Gigi) Doyle, and Brittany Austin performing in the show with Laura Smith, it really made me thing.  Gigi and Brittany are in my class.  But I can’t do a fraction of the things they can do. I think there is going to be a few more sore muscles in my future if I am going to be able to keep up with that class!