DOCSLIB.ORG

The Family 'Whirl'wind

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
The Family 'Whirl'wind YOUNG L AWYERS Plate #2: The Family ‘Whirl’wind By AMANDA G. SCHREIBER Amanda G. Schreiber is the chair of the Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section for the 2019-2020 bar year. She is associate senior counsel at onduct yourself every day so that Cigna Health and Life Insurance others know they can trust you to Company in Bloomfield, where get it done. C she handles healthcare litigation specializing in ERISA and MHPAEA. If I had to provide advice to a young law- She graduated with honors from yer, this would top the list. Increasingly Quinnipiac University School of young lawyers have more of an expec- Law in 2011. tation that work can and should some- times yield to family time, but seeking out that balance with a legal career can be challenging. For those continuing to follow, I have dedicated my column this year to ex- you are practicing law and working late So, among all this chaos of spinning ploring the juggling act of the pres- hours, attending networking events, and plates, with the fine china requiring spe- ent-day young lawyer and how leaders worried about no one but yourself. Then cial attention and dedication to ensure it in the legal community can help young overnight you are married with a child does not fall—how do we get it all done? lawyers find balance to enable not just and scrambling to pick up from daycare productivity, but a healthier, happier life. on time, making cookies for the bake Perhaps balance can only truly be The perspective comes from watching sale, and crossing your fingers that box achieved with a change in perspective. a plate spinning act at a circus themed of diapers gets delivered today. First, we must dispel any idea that a law- show in Hartford and likening my own yer’s dedication to their family somehow experience as a young lawyer to this And while my life follows the trajec- makes them less ambitious or dedicated theatrical performance. I marveled at tory above, the need to balance and to the craft. Most young lawyers I know the careful balancing to keep the plates sometimes prioritize family over work are looking for a robust career with all twirling in the air—it felt a lot like the is not just limited to those with young the responsibility and high level work job, house, marriage, finances, kids, children. Family can constitute a mul- that comes with it—it’s just a matter of health, and wellbeing I try to keep in ro- titude of people and things, including knowing they can leave at 5 p.m. to pick tation every day. significant others, pets, parents, broth- up a child from daycare or keep those ers and sisters, or that new relationship Friday plans with mom to celebrate her None of those plates are more valuable that seems like “the one.” A newly en- birthday. This seems like such a simple than family. In the plate spinning act, it gaged couple may need additional time thing to ask for, yet it’s a privilege few is the fine china, strong and reinforced, to plan for their wedding. A beloved attorneys of any age enjoy. but irreplaceable and delicate in its own pet may be ailing and require multi- way. Nonetheless, I often find among my ple veterinary appointments. A person Second, we must shift our focus to value young lawyer friends (and I’m ashamed may need to take time off to assist an those that are efficient and results-orient- to say in my own life) that sometimes it elderly parent in their post-surgery ed. While the billable hour world we live is not given the priority, value, and atten- needs. All are equally important as they in often makes this difficult, I challenge tion it deserves. signify the most cherished bonds in that our legal community to incentivize these young lawyer’s life, and they should not areas. The young lawyers that juggle Perhaps it’s because the whirlwind of only be allowed, but encouraged, to pri- the many competing demands of their family comes on so quickly. One minute oritize them. life are some of the most efficient, but 38 CT Lawyer | ctbar.org January | February 2020 also creative and insightful colleagues I & LaLima PC, suggests that technology know. Their ability to multi-task is un- helps drive his efficiency: “Older law- precedented and they have learned the yers must recognize that with newer advanced yet difficult task of prioritiz- technology, much more can be accom- ing workload. Results-oriented leader- plished remotely than ever before. This ship that values someone who can pro- allows younger lawyers, especially those duce efficient, high quality work while with children, more flexibility and there meeting deadlines is not only critical for is less need to be tied to the office. My overall balance in a lawyer’s life, but for older partner has been very understand- maintaining workers who produce supe- ing of this new reality. I work hard for rior work. my clients, but working efficiently is not only important but critical to my Cindy Cieslak, chair-elect of the Young success.” Lawyers Section and partner at Rose Kallor LLP, agrees and suggests that Thus, to my struggling young lawyers young lawyers “find what works. Main- I give the following message: prioritize ly, what worked for my family is that I your cherished family time and do not made sure that I work with people I en- let that plate fall. But realize that with joy and trust, who can also trust me. My balance comes a responsibility and dedi- colleagues know that if I have to take rangements to ensure the work is time- cation on your part to still keep your oth- some time off to care for my son, family ly completed. They care about the end er plates—including your work plate— or myself, that I do it when either there result.” spinning. When you show others that is time in my schedule that allows for their trust in you is not misplaced, great it, or if a work matter is pressing and a Trent LaLima, CLE director of the Young things can come from the balance you Image credit: MHJ/DigitalVision Vectors/Getty Images Image credit: MHJ/DigitalVision Vectors/Getty family emergency arises, I will make ar- Lawyers Section and partner at Santos find together. n Test Drive a Section Today Network with colleagues Request and generate referrals Exchange best practices Join up to three sections, for the remainder of the bar year, forFREE! Act by March 31! Use promo code TESTDRIVE20 at ctbar.org/TestDrive20. January | February 2020 ctbar.org | CT Lawyer 39.
Load more

Recommended publications
  • The Peking Acrobats Friday-Saturday, January 21-22, 2005 Zellerbach Hall
    CAL PERFORMANCES PRESENTS The Peking Acrobats Friday-Saturday, January 21-22, 2005 Zellerbach Hall The program for this performance will be selected from the acts listed below. The Peking Acrobats reserve the right to make alterations in the order of the program or in the cast due to illness or any cause whatsoever. Double (Pole) Fantasy Darling Diablos Jar Juggling Hoop Diving Plate Spinning Nose Balancing Feet Balancing Kung-Fu Lion Dance Unicycle Bowl Balancing Souped Up Straps Water Meteor In The High Chair Pagoda Of Chairs Human Pyramid Peacock On A Bicycle Finale There will be one intermission. The use of cameras, flash or video photography and tape recorders is strictly prohibited. The Peking Acrobats recommend that parents advise their children that what they see on stage takes years of practice and should not be tried at home. This performance has been made possible, in part, by the Friends of Cal Performances. Cal Performances thanks the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, The Wallace Foundation, and the Zellerbach Family Foundation for their generous support. CAL PERFORMANCES 5 ABOUT THE PROGRAM also influenced the acrobatic performing arts. For instance, the Lion Dance is Buddhist in origin. The lion was seen as the reincarnation of a woman, and was often teased into revealing her true identity. This dance was a symbol of spiritual renewal and also revered for dispelling bad luck. Originally, court entertainments involving acrobatics were formal and monotonous— quite the opposite of the lively, folk arts of the people. Eventually, however, the excitement of the acrobat’s amazing feats caught and held the attention of the ruling class, and acrobatic performers were routinely invited to the court to entertain and impress visiting dignitaries.
    [Show full text]
  • Hula Hoop Circus Amanda Panda Found Her Passion for the Arts and Hoop Dance in 2009
    canadian school presenters Hula Hoop Circus Amanda Panda found her passion for the arts and hoop dance in 2009. Ten years later she has her own company, Hula Hoop Circus, and is the author of the illustrated children’s book, Mandi the Clown and the Hula Hoop Circus. A pioneer of hoop dance within northern B.C and Alberta, she’s an entertainer and circus skills instructor nominated as one of Canada’s Most Influential Flow Artists. Larger than life and a natural kid magnet, Amanda inspires children to try Click here for video & more info: new things, find their passion, and to DREAM BIG! www.canadianschoolpresenters.com/hula-hoop-circus Quick Facts Presentation Themes: Self-Confidence, Pursuing Dreams, Physical Literacy, Language & Literacy • Exciting and fun circus show including hula hooping, juggling, spinning plates, humour, and more! “Amanda’s presentation was polished and entertaining for all of our students in grades K - 9. I • Great student involvement including would recommend this performance to any school!” onstage volunteers and crowd participation. - Terry Fast, Principal, La Glace School • Strong message throughout the show “Amanda instinctively modified her circus skills about overcoming insecurities & obstacles, program to accommodate a range of ages and trying new things, working hard, and being abilities. Her positive nature motivates students and persistent. her care and compassion helps students gravitate towards her. She genuinely loves children and is a • Workshops and Artist-in-Residence kid magnet.” – Don MacAskill, Wembley Elementary programs are also available. Presentation Options Dream Big! - Work Hard. Play Hard. Dream Big! A show Circus Workshops - Amanda’s fun and engaging workshops to inspire passion, play and purpose while showcasing help promote health & active living through fun and unique a variety of creative athletic feats involving hula hoops, physical activities.
    [Show full text]
  • Plate Spinning, a Stilt-Walking Circus Ringmaster, Punch and Judy Shows, and a Drumming Band Will Come Together to Hit All the Right Notes in Rhyl
    Plate spinning, a stilt-walking circus ringmaster, Punch and Judy shows, and a drumming band will come together to hit all the right notes in Rhyl. The high street will have a circus-themed makeover for the latest free offering from Rhyl Town Council. The one-day Circus Saturday event sets the scene for an exciting summer line-up which includes two music festivals and the ever-popular air show. Rhyl Mayor Cllr Ellie Chard said: “The town council already supports the larger events such as the air show and the soul music festival which attract visitors from far and wide. “On top of that, we put on smaller community activities, primarily for the people who live in Rhyl. These events provide a day of free activities and experiences, some of which are new to the town. Circus Saturday is no different,” she said. Cllr Chard said there was a line-up of activities planned which visitors could try for themselves. She added: “Circus Saturday has something for everyone. We have traditional Punch & Judy shows, music from the fantastic Bloco Sŵn drumming band, crazy mirrors, a magician, balloon modelling, hoola hooping, and face painting. We even have a giant parrot puppet and caricaturist who can sketch visitors. More/… -2- “But we want people to be able to have a go at activities themselves which is why we have a giant game of kerplunk and circus skills workshops. It’s all designed to bring a little fun to the town and make people smile.” Circus Saturday, which will be held on Saturday July 13 between 11am-4pm, will be followed by events at the town’s arena including the Summer Soul music extravaganza on August 18 which fea- tures Jimmy James & The Vagabonds, The Edwin Starr Band ‘The Team’ featuring Angelo Starr, Pre- cious Wilson, Midnight Soul Supremes and guest DJs.
    [Show full text]
  • IJA Enewsletter Editor Don Lewis (Email: [email protected]) Renew At
    THE INTERNATIONAL JUGGLERS’ ASSOCIATION June 2015 IJA eNewsletter editor Don Lewis (email: [email protected]) Renew at http://www.juggle.org/renew IJA eNewsletter IJA Festival July 20 - 26, 2015 Quebec City, QC, Canada Register online soon! Discounts on Contents: Event Packages end June 30! IJA Pre-Reg Deadline Only Days Away Full info is on our website: Chairman’s Message www.juggle.org/festival IJA Election - New, Vote Online! Candidates’ Statements After June 30th, Stage Championships Finalists Register in Person at the Festival IJA Festival Information Online IJA Fest’s Special Guests See fest details starting on page 4, Festival Checklist where the Championships Finalists are listed! WJD shirts, YJA badges in IJA Store What’s New at eJuggle Coming Soon to eJuggle... Juggling Festivals Juggling Festivals: Lincolnshire, UK Eugene, OR Quebec City, Quebec, Canada (IJA) Collinée en Bretagne, France Bruneck, South Tyrol, Italy (EJC) Montpeyroux, France Garsington, Oxfordshire, UK Cleveland, OH Portland, OR Kansas City, MO Philadelphia, PA Fukushima, Japan Ottumwa, IA WWW.JUGGLE.ORG Page 1 THE INTERNATIONAL JUGGLERS’ ASSOCIATION June 2015 Chairman’s Message, by Nathan Wakefield - Obstacle course: $500 - Waterballoon slip and slide: $200 - Drinks and flair bartender: $200 - Onsite massage therapist: $1,000 - Cardboard box castle building contest: $60 - Pinata filled with juggling props: $250 - Tye Dye $60 "To render assistance to fellow jugglers." - Food. $1,630 and the remainder of any additional funds. Special thanks to donor Unna Med and all those who Less than one month until the 2015 IJA Festival in contributed towards this fund of awesomeness! Quebec City! It's been a long road of hard work for our festival team If logistics is an issue for you, we have rideboards and officers, but everything is in place for this year's available on both our festival forum and on Facebook.
    [Show full text]
  • Family Shows @
    FAMILY SHOWS @ The Snail & the Whale Comedy Club 4 Kids 15-16 Jul (times vary) 23 Jul (3pm) Marty MacDonald’s Lazytown Toy Machine The Hogwallops 4 Aug (1.30pm & 4pm) 18 Aug (2pm) 4 Sep (3pm) Bad Guys Captain Flinn & the Pirate Dinosaurs 2 18 Sept (3.30pm) 16 Oct (1.30pm & 4pm) CHRISTMAS 2016 Booking now for our family Christmas shows: Around the World in 80 Days Santa in Love (9-31 Dec) MAIN HOUSE (4-7 Dec) STUDIO THEATRE BOOK ONLINE www.thebrewhouse.net BOX OFFICE (01823) 283 244 FREE EVENTS @ Thurs 28 Jul The Little Lighthouse Come and meet the lighthouse keeper, for interactive stories 11:00am - 4:00pm in his very own Lighthouse. All ages. Thurs 28 Jul Seaside Crafts A hands on creative workshop for families. Decorate your own 3D & 2D seaside 11:00am - 4:00pm models such as mermaids, pirates, fsh and mini lighthouses. All ages. Thurs 4 Aug Super Hero Photo Booth 12:30pm - 1:30pm Come dressed as your favourite super hero and have your 3:00pm - 4:00pm photo taken fying across our cityscape. All ages. Thurs 11 Aug Little Big Top Circus Have a go at circus tricks and antics from juggling, diabolo, hula 11:00am - 3:00pm hooping, poi, stilts, plate spinning, devil sticks and more. All ages. Sat 20 Aug Meeting Mr Boom! 12:00pm / 2:00pm An out of this world new live music and dance show that / 4:00pm will infate before your eyes. All ages. Tues 23 Aug The Gift: Creative Writing Workshop Join Chris Holland to explore storytelling and creative writing, use the 10:30am - 12:30pm workshop to spark an idea to create your own story.
    [Show full text]
  • Workshop Schedule
    Workshops All workshops are described by title, instructor, difficulty, and location. Difficulty reflects a need for prerequisite knowledge; beginner doesn't mean it is easy, just that you don't need to know anything to give it a shot. Workshops and rooms can change; for the most up-to-date listings, please consult the Guidebook mobile application. Workshops are 60 minutes in length unless otherwise indicated. Tuesday, July 16 10:00 Intro to Ball Multiplexing (3, 4, and 5 Balls) – Greg Phillips Beginner Eddy Johnson 11:00 How to Juggle 3 Clubs – Madelyn Dinnerstein Beginner Bernie Joyce Cigar Boxes: Moving from Intermediate to Advanced – Jonathan Intermediate Eddy Johnson Tomick Experiments with Juggling and Music – Steven Rahn Beginner Art Jennings 1:00 Club Kickups – Jeff Olmstead Beginner Bernie Joyce Hat Manipulation – Steve Langley Intermediate Eddy Johnson Line Dancing – Marilyn Sullivan Beginner Perry Field House Foyer Comedy Writing – Scotty Meltzer (2 hours) Beginner Moore Building – Bryan Hall 2:00 Basic Club Tricks – Don Lewis Beginner Bernie Joyce Intermediate/Advanced Diabolo – Rick Purtee Intermediate Eddy Johnson Flamingo Club – Women of the IJA Beginner Art Jennings 3:00 How to Emcee a Show – Warren Hammond Beginner Bernie Joyce Siteswap 101 – Chase Martin Intermediate Eddy Johnson Aerial Fabric – Laura Ernst Beginner Roger Montadon Wednesday, July 17 10:00 Discovering Siteswaps by Number Switching – Max Housman Intermediate Bernie Joyce Oriental Board Game of Go – Scott Dossey Beginner Eddy Johnson 11:00 Beginner/Intermediate
    [Show full text]
  • I Tend to Resist Change, That Is, Unless I Am the One Creating
    By Jen Sharp, jensharp.com Imagine... Juggling or spinning plates? Finding balance with It’s 7:53 a.m. and you are already In this current economic trend, funds technology finishing your second cup of coffee… are being cut; grants are running out; Struggle does not equal a customer is waiting outside the downsizing is prevalent – yet customer accomplishment. The people who make locked front door, peering in through demand for quick, quality service things happen usually also make it look the window, hoping you’ll open up remains high. Many civil servants find easy. I believe it can be. In your effort themselves in a balancing act everyday, early for his urgent request. As you to move from juggling to plate spinner, juggling more responsibilities with less unlock the door, the phone rings. allow technology to help you. Most resources. It feels like a Circus Act. Knocking over the stack of papers tech lovers find the latest “toy” and And juggling is the appropriate piled on your desk as you answer it, contrive a way for it to fit into their analogy: keeping everything from lives. Those of us who buy a phone so you notice another customer walking toppling into disaster takes constant we can make calls (instead of take through the front door. Waving in the watch and skill. However, the pictures or surf the Web) may drag their first man who is becoming inevitability of a brief slip of attention feet to move into the 21st century. I increasingly impatient, you try to remains. It only takes your child being confess that even as a Web programmer mouth instructions while listening to ill or a co-worker missing a day, and the customer who called in, your suddenly, all of the balls come down shoulder pinning the phone against on top of you! Is there a better way? I tend to resist change, your ear, your version of “hands- In keeping with the Circus analogy, that is, unless I am the free” as you shuffle through papers think of the Plate Spinner.
    [Show full text]
  • Classic Comedy Mark Lohr
    Teacher Program Guide Assembly Date: __________________________________________ Assembly Time: __________________________________________ For Students in: __________________________________________ Classic Comedy Mark Lohr Mark’s character, Mr. Jones, takes audiences on an exciting journey with underlying educational themes. Highly interactive, Mr. Jones and the audience share center stage! This action-packed performance includes slapstick, juggling, plate spinning, and more. Based on “If at first you don’t succeed…” theory, Mr. Jones’ creative problem solving skills leave audiences howling with laughter. Contact Young Audiences for more information on this and other programs at 410-837-7577 or yamd.org Young Audiences/Arts for Learning | 2600 N. Howard St., Suite 1300 | Baltimore, MD 21218 Teacher Program Guide Assembly Date: __________________________________________ Assembly Time: __________________________________________ For Students in: __________________________________________ Please pass along the attached teacher program guide to all participating classrooms. Setup Requirements Clear 15’x15’ performance area At least 3’ space between performer and audience Private dressing area for performer before and after performance(s) Artist Arrival Time 30 to 40 minutes prior to performance Suggested Introduction “Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, get ready for some big fun! Please welcome Mr. Jones, presenting... ‘Classic Comedy!’” Inclement Weather DON’T WORRY! Artists will follow school closings/delays and will work with you to reschedule the performance if necessary. Young Audiences Contact Number 410-837-7577 After Hours / Emergency Number Call 410-837-7577 and follow the prompts to be connected with a staff member on call. Contact Young Audiences for more information on this and other programs at 410-837-7577 or yamd.org Young Audiences/Arts for Learning | 2600 N.
    [Show full text]
  • Circus Schools Discovery Questionnaire This Is for Quotation Purposes Only—This Is Not a Binder A
    ANY PERSON WHO KNOWINGLY AND WITH INTENT TO DEFRAUD ANY INSURANCE COMPANY OR OTHER PERSON, FILES AN APPLICATION FOR INSURANCE CONTAINING ANY FALSE INFORMATION, OR CONCEALS FOR THE PURPOSE OF MISLEADING, INFORMATION CONCERNING ANY FACT MATERIAL THERETO, COMMITS A FRAUDULENT INSURANCE ACT, WHICH IS A CRIME. CIRCUS SCHOOLS DISCOVERY QUESTIONNAIRE THIS IS FOR QUOTATION PURPOSES ONLY—THIS IS NOT A BINDER A. General Information PROPOSED EFFECTIVE DATE: 1. Applicant (as it would appear on the coverage contract): 2. Doing Business As: 3. Mailing Address: City: State: Zip: 4. Contact Person: Years Experience: Contact Person is: □ Owner □ Manager □ Promoter □ Management □ Other: 5. Phone: Fax Number: 6. Web Address: E-Mail Address: 7. Is this a new business? □ Yes □ No If no, how many years have you been in business? 8. Applicant is: □ Individual □ Corporation □ Partnership □ Joint Venture □ Other: 9. Length of season: 10. Who was your last or is your current insurance carrier? 11. What is or was your annual premium? 12. Describe your claims and loss history: 13. Amount of Liability Required: □ 50,000 per accident / 100,000 annual □ 100,000 per accident / 200,000 annual aggregate aggregate □ 100,000 per accident / 300,000 annual □ 200,000 per accident / 300,000 annual aggregate aggregate □ 200,000 per accident / 500,000 annual □ 300,000 per accident / 500,000 annual aggregate aggregate □ 300,000 per accident / 300,000 annual □ 500,000 per accident / 500,000 annual aggregate aggregate □ 300,000 per accident / 1,000,000 annual □ 500,000 per accident / 1,000,000 annual aggregate aggregate 14. Self-Insured Retention desired: □ $1,000 □ $2,500 □ $5,000 □ Other: $ B.
    [Show full text]
  • Circus Arts Middle (6-8)
    TOOLS FOR LEARNING CIRCUS ARTS MIDDLE (6-8) A PUBLIC SERVICE OF Since the existence of Ancient Rome, the circus has been associated with entertaining the population with acts of athletic ability. The modern circus is believed to have originated in England in the 1700s. Cavalry officer Philip Astley is said to have set up an amphitheater for crowds to gather and pay to be entertained by his tricks and stunts on horseback. Clowns, acrobats, and other entertainers were gradually added throughout the decades to follow. While this instructional module won’t involve stunts on horseback, it will help to develop bilateral coordination, balance, and confidence. There are a variety of ways to utilize the resources provided. We offer a suggested format for planning your Circus Arts unit. However, feel free to modify this format to fit your schedule and the needs of your students. Standard 1 [M25.6-8] Individual-Performance Activities Demonstrates correct technique for basic skills in one self-selected individual- performance activity (6); Demonstrates correct technique for a variety of skills in one self-selected individual-performance activity (7); Demonstrates correct technique for basic skills in at least two self-selected individual-performance activities (8). Standard 2 [M12.6-8] Individual-Performance Activities, Movement Concepts Varies application of force during dance or gymnastic activities (6); Identifies and applies Newton’s laws of motion to various dance or movement activities (7); Describes/applies mechanical advantage for a variety of movement patterns (8). Standard 3 [M18.6-8] Stress Management Identifies positive and negative results of stress and appropriate ways of dealing with each (6); Practices strategies for dealing with stress, such as deep breathing, guided visualization, and aerobic exercise (7); Demonstrates basic movements used in other stress-reducing activities such as yoga and Tai Chi (8).
    [Show full text]
  • January 1976 Unicycling Society of America, Inc
    VOLUME It) 1 ....;... ... , JAN. 1976 r1, 1 .t r, ') Official Organ UNICYCLI1"0 SOCIETY OF AMERICA Inc. @)1976 All Rts Res. Yearly Membership I~ Includes Newsletter (4) ID Card - See Blank Pg 16 OFFICERS FELLOW UNICYCLISTS: Pres. Paul Fox V.Pres. John White This is the start of our third year and our ninth newsletter. Comments on Sec. T. Di.ck Haines both our Unicycling Society of America Inc.in general and on our quarter­ ly newsletter have been most gratifying. Our new officers (see write-ups FOUNDER MEMBERS on page .5) are full of enthusiasm and detemina.tion that the year 76 is to Bernard Crandall be the best ever. Plans are well under Wt1Y for another National Unicycle Paul & Nancy Fox Meet this time in Marion Ohio, the home of our new President Paul Fox, on Peter Hangach August 21,22, 1976. The April an:l July issues of our newsletter will con­ Patricia Herron tain information on the aetivi ties planned, a map of the area, and Food & Bill Jenack lodging accommodations. As before we hope to have use of a school gym and Gordon Kruse cafeteria as sleeping quarters for members who wish to bring sleeping bags Steve McPeak to minimize lodging expense. The city of Marl.on, Ohio is quite used to Fr. Jas. J. Moran seeing unicyclists, recognizes the advantages of promoting such a sport Dr. Miles s. Rogers among its young people, and for maey years has given wholehearted backing Charlotte Fox Rogers to The Paul Fox Unicycle Club Inc. which is sponsoring this years Nat'l .lney- Rubel Meet.
    [Show full text]
  • It's a Circus!
    Life? It’s A Circus! Teacher Resource Pack INTRODUCTION Unlike many other forms of entertainment, such as theatre, ballet, opera, vaudeville, movies and television, the history of circus history is not widely known. The most popular misconception is that modern circus dates back to Roman times. But the Roman “circus” was, in fact, the precursor of modern horse racing (the Circus Maximus was a racetrack). The only common denominator between Roman and modern circuses is the word circus which, in Latin as in English, means "circle". Circus has undergone something of a revival in recent decades, becoming a theatrical experience with spectacular costumes, elaborate lighting and soundtracks through the work of the companies such as Circus Oz and Cirque du Soleil. But the more traditional circus, touring between cities and regional areas, performing under the big top and providing a more prosaic experience for families, still continues. The acts featured in these, usually family-run, circuses are generally consistent from circus to circus, with acrobatics, balance, juggling and clowning being the central skillsets featured, along with horsemanship, trapeze and tightrope work. The circus that modern audiences know and love owes much of its popularity to film and literature, and the showmanship of circus entrepreneurs such as P.T. Barnum in the mid 1800s and bears little resemblance to its humble beginnings in the 18th century. These notes are designed to give you a concise resource to use with your class and to support their experience of seeing Life? It’s a Circus! CLASSROOM CONTENT AND CURRICULUM LINKS Essential Learnings: The Arts (Drama, Dance) Health and Physical Education (Personal Development) Style/Form: Circus Theatre Physical Theatre Mime Clowning Themes and Contexts: Examination of the circus style/form and performance techniques, adolescence, resilience, relationships General Capabilities: Personal and Social Competence, Critical and Creative Thinking, Ethical Behaviour © 2016 Deirdre Marshall for Homunculus Theatre Co.
    [Show full text]