Series & Workshops
for students aged 16 and older
Workshops
Intro to Hair Suspension Workshop
with Nicole Malbeuf
March 20 - 25th
This workshop is your tool kit to start your independent practice in the wonderful art of hair suspension. This 21 hour workshop includes lecture-based theory in anatomy, postural health, core/pelvic floor health, nervous system management and rigging considerations for hair hang. This workshop also includes applied training in physical preparation, hair knot technique (how to tie your hair) and progressions for working towards self-suspension (hanging all your body weight from your hair).
Workshop is complete with hair knot equipment, a step-by-step illustrated hair knot guide, video tutorial and digital handbook.
Workshop Details
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5 days, 21 hours total
Friday, March 20 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm
Saturday, March 21 • 12:30 - 6:00 pm
Sunday, March 22 • 12:30 - 6:00 pm
Monday, March 23 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm
Tuesday, March 24 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm
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$550 + gst
Installment plan available: 4 equal payments of $137.50 + gst
Contact us to arrange the installment plan at info@islandcircusspace.com
15% discount for members
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Students must have a regular movement practice(s) that involves the whole body (circus, dance, yoga, martial arts, gymnastics etc) and is practiced a minimum of 3 times a week.
Students must have healthy hair of medium-to-thick density (number of hairs). Hair length must be armpit length or greater when pulled straight. Hair must be free of chemical treatments (dyes, perms, relaxers) and free of permanent/semi-permanent physical applications (extensions, braids, locks etc). Hair should NOT be treated regularly with high heat tools. Hair that is prone to shedding or breakage is not encouraged. All hair textures/patterns are welcome. Please reach out to us with photos of your hair if you have an undercut, a fringe, shaved sides and/or dramatic layers for an assessment.Students must be able to invert their hair (by doing a forward-fold at hips for 1-2 minutes). Must be proficient at making tight OVERHAND braids OR have a support person present who can assist you during the hair preparation process.
Must have good spinal health, free of injury and instability. It is suggested that students undergo an assessment and treatment with a physical therapist to address any cervical ligament instability and postural (muscular and/or skeletal) imbalances before the retreat.
Must enter into this retreat expecting “slow gratification”. Students must respect the working pace of their own individual body and comfort level.
This retreat is not recommended for students who have been in a vehicular accident(s), have had a concussion(s), have localized hyper-mobility in the neck, experience regular nerve pain, regular dizziness and/or are experiencing more than average daily hair loss (more than 50-150 strands/day).
If you have questions about these requirements and/or if you do NOT meet these requirements but are willing to work towards them, please reach out to Nicole at trellisentertainment@gmail.com to discuss.
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This workshop is presented in English . No sign language interpretation available.
Workshop spaces are not wheelchair accessible.
If students are unable to invert their hair by hinging at the hips and/or braid their own hair, you are welcome to bring a trusted support person to assist with hair knot preparation who will be a regular part of your practice. Let us know if you plan on bringing someone!
Lecture content includes a combination of professional visuals and video, detailed written descriptions and verbal explanations.
We offer multiple seating options. Feel free to bring your own.
Students are welcome to take breaks as needed. We will create a relaxed environment where students can be comfortable being themselves.
Let us know if you have any particular access needs - we will do our best to accommodate.
NICOLE MALBEUF is a Canadian aerial-theatre artist specializing in hair suspension. She has performed solo works across Canada, the US and Ireland with companies like Cirque Dreams, Wonderbolt Circus and Fidget Feet. She is recognized for her hair suspension chicken character in A Hen Called Freedom, her full-length farm-circus show.
Nicole directs Trellis Arts, an aerial-dance theatre company. The Intro to Hair Suspension program was created in collaboration with specialists in physical therapy and with advice from various experts in rigging and hair science. Nicole has 9 years of hair hang experience, a vast hair hanger network and compiled anecdotal research. She had the privilege of working in private hair hang mentorships with Ingrid Esperanza (Mexico) and Danila Bim (Brazil). She has teacher training in Artistic Gymnastics (NCCP), Acrobatic Arts, Aerial Arts and Flying Footless, as well as rigging training from GeoArc and Gaslamp FX. She strives to create learning environments that are empathetic, encouraging, welcoming of all identities, and supportive of individual needs and abilities. Trellis Arts’ teaching philosophies are rooted in safety and sustainability.
For more information about Nicole and Trellis Arts, visit www.trellisarts.ca
Stilt Walking with Janet
January 17 - 31
Ready to try something totally new? This stilt walking workshop series is open to anyone age 16+. No experience needed! You’ll learn the essentials of stilt walking, including:
How to walk confidently and safely
How to fall (and get back up!)
How to spot and support others
Plenty of practice time to build your balance and control
Stilts will be provided, but students must bring their own kneepads for safety during fall practice. Our experienced circus instructor will guide you through each step, making sure you feel supported as you rise above the ground—literally.
Come ready to challenge yourself, laugh a lot, and discover the thrill of moving at a whole new level.
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Saturdays, Jan 17 - 31
3:30 - 5:00 pm
3 week series
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$115 + gst
15% off for members
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General body awareness without any significant mobility limitations.
Bring knee pads!
Intensive Series
Juggle Series with Henrik
December: 3 week workshop series
This series of workshops is aimed at all levels, whether you're brand new to juggling or a seasoned pro -- there is something new to learn for everyone! Drop-in for one week, or sign up for the full series.
Week 1: Showers, shuffles, and threading in multiplexes for more dynamic patterns.
Week 2: High throws + creative same-hand moves, with a deep dive into 423 variations.
Week 3: Two-ball base patterns while creating visual flair with the third — think factory, JoJo, and other eye-catching tricks.
Each workshop is 1 hour, followed by 30 minutes of free open training with guidance from Henrik.
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Saturdays, Dec 6 - 20
3:30 - 5:00 pm
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Drop-in Price, per class: $25 + gst
Full series, 3 weeks: $75 + gst
Island Circus members and non-members can use their class passes to register for these workshops!
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No pre-reqs!
Each class in this workshop series is all-levels - from total beginner, to seasoned professional - there will be something for everyone.
Handstands & Coffee
Two hours upside down, fueled by courage (and caffeine).
For the truly committed (and a little bit caffeinated) — our Saturday Handstand & Espresso class is a two-hour deep dive into skill, strength, and consistency. This extended format gives you the time to refine technique, build endurance, and explore new challenges without the rush. Come early for a fresh cup of coffee, stay for the handstands, and leave with shaky arms and a happy heart.
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Saturdays, 12:10 - 2:00 pm
4 week series • Nov 15 - Dec 6
2 weeks drop-in • Dec 13 - 20
4 week series • Jan 3 - 24
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$140 + gst for 4 weeks
$35 + gst per class
15% off for members
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General body awareness without any significant mobility limitations.
Intro Series
Aerial Intro Series
Curious about Aerial Circus, but not sure where to start? Try this intro series, and dip your toes into the aerial arts!
This 4-week Aerial Intro Series will introduce you to the basics of Aerial Silks, Hammock, Trapeze, and Hoop.
Sundays 6:40pm-7:40pm
December 7th - December 28th
January 4th - January 25th
Cost: $85 + gst
Acro Intro Series
Start your Acro Yoga journey off right with our 4-week Acro Foundations Series.
Students will be working in groups of 3 or more. No partner or experience required.
Fridays 6:10pm-7:10 pm
January 2 - 23, 2026
Cost: $85 + gst
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Class Passes, as well our Tiered Memberships do apply for our Intro to Aerial and Intro to Acro Yoga Series.
Our Series and Workshops are changing based on the requests of our community. Is there something you would like to see? Email us.
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We do not offer refunds once enrolled in a Series or Workshop. In certain circumstances, enrolment can be transferred to a future Series.
We cannot offer makeup classes in future sessions if a class is missed during a Series.