What makes someone choose a life in circus?
Every year, aspiring artists from across Australia make the decision to pursue one of the most physically demanding and creatively ambitious careers in the performing arts. From now until 14 August 2026, the National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA) is accepting applications to audition for its 2027 courses, inviting the next generation of circus artists to take the leap.
For many, the decision to audition is not a casual one. It reflects a level of focus and commitment that is difficult to find elsewhere, and requires equal measures of discipline, resilience, teamwork, and passion.
For NICA alumnus Luca Trimboli (2024), the decision meant walking away from a degree in urban planning to follow an unconventional, yet undeniable passion. “I wanted to pursue circus while my body was still capable of taking on the intense physical load,” said Trimboli. “I never wanted to regret not having tried.”
After discovering circus through a friend’s invitation to a come-and-try day, Trimboli found himself drawn to a path that fulfilled his desire for athleticism, creativity, and collaboration. Today, he credits NICA as a fundamental part of his journey as a professional artist. Trimboli will be performing with Sul Filo del Circo at Turin in July.
Fellow alumna Merlene Hutt (2024) understands the gravity of taking that leap. “During COVID, I had a comfortable, well-paying job with genuinely lovely people,” she said. “But I realised that opportunity would always be there, whereas a career as a physical performer has a much shorter window. I knew I would always wonder ‘what if?’ if I hadn’t taken the chance.”
Hutt embodies the ‘THIS. Or Nothing.’ approach, which she says, “represents the all-in level of commitment required for circus. It’s about continuing to try and then trying again.”
Hutt is now a member of The Crackup Sisters, who celebrate the culture, craft and characters of Outback Australia. The Crackup Sisters are touring regional Australia currently and tour dates are available here.
While audiences may only see a single performer in the spotlight, NICA emphasises that circus is built on teamwork. Behind every act are the artists, stage managers, spotters, technicians, creatives, and collaborators working together to produce extraordinary performances.
“When assessing applicants, we look for more than just physical ability,” says NICA’s Head of Circus Studies, Juliana Neves. “We identify students who demonstrate resilience, dedication, teamwork and the courage to pursue an unconventional path.”
Both Trimboli and Hutt offer similar advice to prospective applicants: if circus is something you feel compelled to pursue, take the opportunity.
“The worst that can happen is that you broaden your experiences and learn something about yourself along the way,” said Hutt. “And who knows? It might just change your life.”
Applications for NICA’s Bachelor of Circus Arts (BACA) and Certificate IV in Circus Arts (11361NAT) are now open, with audition applications closing on 14 August 2026. For more information and to apply, visit nica.com.au/ed
