A Unique Path in the World of Circus
When it comes to after-school activities, many children gravitate towards traditional sports like soccer, netball, and rugby. However, for some, the path is a little more unconventional. Mannie Kaydos-Nitis is one such individual who took a different route when she was just eight years old.
Instead of joining a typical sports club, she chose to explore the world of circus. At first, it was simply a fun activity, similar to the other recreational options her peers were taking part in. But as she grew older, her passion for the art form deepened.
“At around 12 or 13, I started taking it more seriously,” she recalls. “I realized that I really enjoyed it more than school and other things.”
By the age of 14, she was already teaching others, eager to share her love for circus with anyone interested. Her dedication led her to an opportunity at a young age, and she quickly became involved in the professional side of the industry.
A Life in the Circus
At 16, Kaydos-Nitis made the bold decision to leave her regular life behind and join a professional circus. While one might imagine a dramatic departure, the reality of modern circus is far from what most people expect. She auditioned for and was accepted into Flying Fruit Circus, Australia’s leading youth circus. This organization not only provides performance opportunities but also supports its members with education.
Kaydos-Nitis completed her high school studies while performing with the troupe, eventually graduating as an acrobat and aerialist. Over the past 16 years, she has traveled the world, performing and training others in the craft of circus.
Today, she has returned to her roots, working at the newest initiative from the team behind Flying Fruit Circus—Circus Centre Melbourne. In this role, she has two main responsibilities: as Public Programs Coordinator and as a trainer. She teaches circus to people of all ages, helping to spread the joy and discipline of the art form.
The Wide World of Circus
According to Kaydos-Nitis, the term “circus” covers a broad range of activities. “It’s pretty much anything you can think of,” she explains. “From acrobatics and balance tricks to aerial silks, trapeze, and trampolining.”
She is trained as an acrobat and aerialist, and within that, she can teach a wide variety of skills at an intermediate level. “That includes juggling, acrobatics, aerials, balance, tumbling, flipping, and everything in between.”
Despite the growing popularity of circus in Australia, Kaydos-Nitis notes that there is still a lingering stereotype surrounding the art form. “Circus was always seen as a bit different and wacky,” she says. “But as the world has evolved, so has circus. It’s now recognized as a contemporary art form, much like any other.”
She believes that the stigma attached to circus is more about perception than reality. “People should be more open-minded. There are definitely still elements of that freakish stigma, but it’s not as strong as it used to be.”
Embracing the Future of Circus
Kaydos-Nitis continues to advocate for the recognition of circus as a legitimate and valuable art form. She encourages people to step outside their comfort zones and explore the possibilities that the world of circus offers.
Through her work at Circus Centre Melbourne, she is helping to shape the next generation of circus performers and enthusiasts. Her journey from a curious child to a respected professional highlights the potential that lies within the world of circus.
For those interested in discovering more about the art form, she suggests starting with a class or workshop. “It’s a great way to get involved and see what it’s really all about,” she says. “You never know—you might just find your passion.”
