Circus as an alternative for socially vulnerable children
The circus project Circo Fantazztico, run by partner organisation Vida Nueva, offers children and young people from socially marginalised communities in San Isidro, Costa Rica, an alternative to involvement in gangs and to the lack of prospects in their difficult social environment.
Regular circus training sessions are offered in the socially disadvantaged neighbourhood of Cocorí. In addition, Circo Fantazztico now works with children and young people in other institutions, where it offers circus and creative activities. Regular school attendance is a prerequisite for participating in the circus project. In this way, the project also contributes to education and provides children and young people with a perspective for the future. Through circus, a social community and a safe space are created where they can spend their free time in a meaningful, positive and healthy way.
The experience of recent years has shown that Vida Nueva’s artistic project provides children and young people with an excellent opportunity to improve their physical abilities and strengthen their social skills. This helps them gain self-confidence while developing independence and the ability to work as part of a team. In addition to circus training, creative workshops, excursions and other activities are organised, allowing children and young people to discover their strengths and develop their creativity.
Through its work in social prevention and the arts, the circus has gained national and international recognition, and the performers regularly have opportunities to showcase their skills outside Costa Rica at festivals and on tours. The circus has also performed its productions in Switzerland on numerous occasions. This success serves as a source of motivation for all the children and young people who have found an alternative to gang involvement through Circo Fantazztico.
Carolina Gil
Director Circo Fantazztico, Costa Rica
“Circo Fantazztico is a dynamic social project. It promotes learning and self-knowledge among the participants and gives them the opportunity to experiment with their own abilities and develop in different areas of life. The circus is also a safe and free space. A refuge from life’s adversities and a place of joy, resilience and nourishment for the soul. Every circus experience is a treasure for every person, whether as a participant, trainer or spectator. For me, social circus is a pedagogy and a means of socio-cultural intervention, innovative and revolutionary.”
