Learn more about the VA youth program from Lauren Kehl, founder and prior director of the program
Versatile Arts offers youth classes at all levels for students age 11-17. Students who have not yet turned 11 should check out the classes at SANCA. Students who have had some experience will need a student assessment to find out which class fits them best. Email us to set that up.
Please note that because our youth program is quite small, we cannot always accept new beginning students. If there are no intro-level class listed below, you can contact us to set up private or shared private lessons for them.
To register for class the first time:
Fill out a release form for each student. This is an online release form; no need to print anything. It will automatically create an account for your student(s) in our system.
Look for a VAMP New User Account confirmation email (sent from vamp.messaging@gmail.com) with information about how to log in to the registration system.
Once your login is set up, click the “Register” button underneath the class you want to take.
The youth class level description are:
Intro – This is for brand new students; no prior experience is needed. Vertical graduation requirements from this level are solid basic and Russian climbs, safe and stable descents, solid footlocks in the air, working on straddling up from the ground and ability to hold the position once inverted, and ability to get into a sling or knotted fabric via double knee hook or pullover. Trapeze graduation requirements are basket mount and pullover to hip hang.
Level 1 (experienced beginner) – Graduation requirements are a solid straddle up from the ground and working on straddling up in the air, double footlocks, working on catcher’s sequence, and figure 8 wrap.
Level 2 (intermediate): Graduation requirements are solid catcher’s wrap, clean scissor hip key, star drop, solid figure 8 wrap, salto, crossback straddle, Rebecca splits, solid single-rotation windmill, ability to straddle up in the air multiple times in a row, and the endurance to stay in the air for 2 minutes at a time.
Level 3 (advanced intermediate): Graduation requirements are a straight arm, straight leg inversion, proficiency with basic beats (bell, front-back, turnpike, scissor, flair), solid windmills (multiple rotations) on both sides, double star, back salto, and zipper.
Level 4 (advanced): Students at this level work on our most physically and technically challenging moves, including release moves and open drops, roll-ups, beat sequences, and dynamic transitions. There is no advancing beyond level 4.
In Versatile Arts’ youth circus camp week, students will experience a variety of physical circus disciplines. In addition to a daily dose of aerial, students will learn the basics of hula-hooping, acro, and flexibility training. A variety of aerial apparatuses will be offered, and students will be organized into small groups based on aerial experience. Camp is open to all levels of students, including intro-level students and those new to circus. Each day will be divided into three 50-minute classes with short breaks in between providing opportunities for snacks and socializing.
If you have questions about camp week, please contact youth_program@versatilearts.net
