Finnish circus programs promote life skills and community engagement

Circus arts offer valuable life skills such as the ability to fail safely, independence, self-confidence, and social skills. According to Evianna Lehtipuu, the director of the Finnish Youth Circus Association, circus activities can be initiated as early as three to four months old, with no upper age limit. Senior circus programs are gaining interest and are available in various service centers and care homes. There are different levels of groups, from beginners to advanced, alongside specialized adult classes focusing solely on specific skills like handstands, juggling, or aerial acrobatics.

The origins of Finnish circus can be traced back to the Hamina Teen Circus established in 1973 by Claes Cedercreutz, a trained hand surgeon with a passion for the circus. His motto, “Better to wobble on a tightrope than on a street corner,” reflects the spirit of social circus, which uses circus as a tool for enhancing life skills and community engagement.

Social circus in Finland aims to promote well-being among participants, enhancing their abilities to cope with failure and pressure while fostering mental and physical health. Programs are conducted with various special groups, including those in shelters, service homes, and even prisons. Notably, the Finnish Criminal Sanctions Agency currently funds circus activities in Kylmäkoski prison, marking a permanent initiative.

The Finnish circus scene has thrived post-pandemic, exceeding pre-COVID audience numbers and expanding outdoor performances. There are upcoming shows by the Arctic Ensemble at various locations. However, recent cuts in arts funding threaten this progress, impacting the social benefits cultivated through cultural engagement, as emphasized by Lehtipuu, who stresses the significance of these programs in combating loneliness in Finland.