The Circus Trust is run by the amazing duo Chris & Lisa. Chris & Lisa are professional clowns, with a lifetime of knowledge and experience in the circus industry, both locally and internationally. You may also know them as the famous Carrot & Pickle. They formed the Christchurch Circus Trust in 2005, and it was originally connected to the ‘Circo-Arts’ program running out of the Christchurch Polytechnic. Now based at the Roy Stokes Hall in New Brighton, they offer circus classes for children and adults, provide a training space for circus professionals, and produce shows.

Teila teaches our Kids & Adult level 1 Aerial Classes, and our Adult Stretch Class. She is also involved in many other Circus Trust activities, such as assitsant teaching in other classes, show production and admin. She entered the world of Circo Arts at 25 years old, specializing her training in the Aerial Arts & Contortion. A few years later, she ventured into the world of performing, falling more in love with Circus. And 5 years later, she started her teaching journey, sharing her love of circus with others. Since 2016, Teila has been teaching for and performing with us, here at the Christchurch Circus Trust. 

.Calvin teaches our Circus skills classes, from Kids through to Adults. You will also find him at teaching or showcasing his skills at local events Christchurch wide. Calvin is a seasoned circus performer and instructor with over a decade of experience in the circus world and has taught circus both locally and internationally. With a focus on Juggling and Rola-bola, Calvin has honed his skills and developed a unique approach to teaching these disciplines.

Muika is one of our Level 2+ aerial teachers, specialising in Silks, Rope & Lyra. She teaches Adult Fabric Class & Youth level2+ Aerial Class. You will also see her teaching in many of our other classes. Though based in Christchurch, you will also find her teaching or performing at events & shows throughout New Zealand. She started training Circo Arts as a child, specializing in Aerials. Since then, she has widened her skill set to include many other Circus disciplines, and also, other genres of performing, such as musicals, theatre, dance and singing. Muika is an award-winning aerialist, has graduated from the Hagley Dance Project, has a certificate in aerial teaching awarded by Paper Doll Militia, and a performing arts certificate awarded by NASDA.

Sarah is one of our Level 2+ aerial teachers, specialising in Silks, Rope & Straps. She teaches Adult Fabric Class, and you will also see her assistant teaching in many of our other classes as needed. You can also find her performing at local events & shows around Christchurch. Sarah has taught circus both locally & internationally. She started training Circo Arts as a child, she is trained in multiple circus disciplines, and also, other genres of performing, such as musicals, theatre, dance, singing & even plays saxophone in orchestras & jazz bands.

Emma is a passionate hula hoop artist with more than 10 years of experience in the circus world. She has been teaching for the past 4 years and loves helping people discover strength, flow, and confidence through hoop play. Her classes focus on building solid technique while keeping things creative and fun. Emma teaches both kids and adults and enjoys working with complete beginners through to experienced hoopers. Whether you want to learn a new skill, improve your coordination, or feel more connected to your body, Emma creates a welcoming space for everyone to shine.