We will be holding in person auditions on July 15th from 4-5:30pm. Please reach out if you can not make this date & you will have the option to submit an audition video instead.
AGES 10-17 WELCOME!
Program Length: 10 Months
Weekly Schedule
Wednesdays: 5 – 7:30 PM (Program Start Date Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026)
Sundays: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM (Last Class Sunday, June 13th, 2027)
- PLUS 1 Bonus Class: choose 1 additional class from our studio schedule. * Please let us know your selected focus class before each new series begins via email.
The Program Includes
- Trapeze
- Lyra (aerial hoop)
- Contortion/Flexibility
- Silks
- Sling
- Other creative apparatuses such as Tippy Lyra, Cloud Swing, Chains, The Soup Can, Sling Chandelier, The Halo and perhaps even a newly invented surprise apparatus!
Wednesday Training Focus
- Dance Technique
- Choreography
- Aerial ensemble work
- Team building
- Creative exploration
Sunday Training Focus
- Active Flexibility
- Aerial Fundamentals
- Conditioning
- Performance Skills
- Apparatus Specific technique
A Brief Look Into the Program
- Contemporary dance
- Improvisation
- Partner acrobatics
- Choreography in the air and on the ground
- Active flexibility
- Proper technique through dance in the air and on ground
- Cross training on all apparatuses
- Performance skills
- Smart conditioning
- Aerial safety education
- Costume and makeup workshop w/ Kate Cloud
- Mindfulness exercises
- Injury prevention
- Circus and aerial history
- Career management for aspiring performers
- Professional photoshoot at the studio w/ Louie Paul
- Professional performance videography at the theatre by Zsuzsanna Mangu
- Three large-scale performances at Alberta Rose Theatre
- Solo recital at the studio
- Potential to perform in multiple shows w/ Shapescape
- End-of-year sleepover party
Professional Circus & Aerial Audition Preparation
Students will develop technical mastery, unique artistry, stage presence, versatility, ability to take direction, ensemble collaboration skills, emotional expressiveness, audition and application skills for circus, SO many aerial opportunities and incredible friendships!
Program Philosophy
This program is structured to provide advanced level training for dedicated students who are eager to take their skills to the next level with a focus on becoming professional circus artists.
Company members receive professional caliber circus training and strong mentorship. In addition to advancing their chosen apparatus, students continue developing their aerial, circus, and performance skills both independently and as part of an ensemble. Students will have a heavy focus on act creation, movement quality, professionalism, audition readiness, character & mindset. And, of course, all the fun, confidence, and lasting friendships that come with this incredible journey!
No Class Dates
Thanksgiving Break
- Wednesday, November 25, 2026
- Sunday, November 29, 2026
Winter Break / December 19th, 2026 – January 4, 2027 No troupe classes will be held during Winter Break.
Spring Break (Portland Public Schools)
- Sunday, March 28th, 2027
- Wednesday, March 31st, 2027
- Sunday, April 4th, 2027
Important Dates
Performance with Celtic Light Orchestra September 27th – 29th, 2027 (location TBA)
Professional Photoshoot Wednesday, December 2nd, 2026
5 – 7:30 PM @ Afterglow Aerial Arts with Louie Paul
Costume & Makeup Workshop Wednesday, February 24th, 2027
5 – 7:30 PM @ Afterglow Aerial Arts w/ Kate Cloud
Alberta Rose Theatre Tech Rehearsal May 2027 – Date TBD
Alberta Rose Theatre Performances May 14th & May 15th, 2027
Three Shows:
- 7 PM on Friday night (Doors 6 PM)
- 2 & 6 PM on Saturday (Doors 1 & 5 PM)
Includes professional photography and videography.
Solo Recital Friday, June 4, 2027, 7 PM (doors 6:30 PM)
At Afterglow Aerial Arts studio
End-of-Year Sleepover Party TBA
Tuition Options
Early Bird Pay-in-Full
$5,950 Must be paid in full at least two weeks prior to the program start date.
Two-Payment Plan
$3,085 + $3,085
Total: $6,170
- First payment due two weeks prior to the program start date.
- Second payment due before January 15, 2027.
Monthly Payment Plan
$650/month for 10 months
Total: $6,500
Payments due before the 15th of each month. All payments include all rehearsal fees.
New Students
To inquire about joining the program, please email: afterglowpdx@gmail.com with any questions.
Scholarship Opportunity
There is one discounted scholarship spot available each season. To apply, submit a written essay explaining why circus, aerial arts, and/or acrobatics are important to you and how participation in the program would benefit your growth.
Refund Policy
No refunds will be issued for cancellation requests made less than seven (7) days prior to the program start date. The program is non-transferable. To cancel participation, written notice must be submitted to: afterglowpdx@gmail.com at least seven days prior to the start of the program. Eligible refunds will be issued minus a $250 administrative fee, or a credit may be applied to your account.
Missed a class?
Make-up sessions can be completed during our 2-hour Open Gyms.
Questions?
We are so excited for another unforgettable year of flying, growing, and creating with this group of talented young artists. If you have any questions or need assistance throughout the season, please don’t hesitate to reach out, AfterglowPDX@gmail.com
Happy flying,
The Afterglow Aerial Arts Team
