The making of expert performers at Cirque du Soleil and the National Circus School: A performance enhancement outlook

Abstract

In this paper, an applied analysis of the psychological processes and skills necessary for performance artists to excel in contemporary circus is presented. This analysis is based on applied experience at Cirque du Soleil and the National Circus School, leading contemporary circus programs in the world. The importance of learning the rules of the circus domain, transferring motor skills to the circus environment, and developing an artistic identity and mindful mind-set are discussed. Furthermore, general and discipline-specific performance pressures are identified and discussed in light of current performance enhancement techniques.