Why Networking at NICA Is Just as Important as Training

As a NICA student, you’re laying the foundations of your professional career. The stronger that foundation, the more powerful the leap—it’s literally science. 

And yes, that foundation is undeniably built on a relentless commitment to self-development: mastering the holy trinity of mind, body, and apparatus. 

But while you’re out there creating, performing, and refining your craft… here’s one more element to add to your training toolkit: networking.

And no—we’re not talking about the surface-level, ladder-climbing, corporate buzzword kind of ✨networking✨. 

In circus, networking is about forging real, meaningful relationships—with classmates, coaches, visiting artists, and alumni. Because another word for foundation is support.  

By building your network, you’re building a support system and growing your capacity to support others. 

The First Step? You’ve Already Taken it

The people you stretch, sweat, and struggle through handstand drills with? They’ll very likely become your castmates, co-creators, equipment lenders, crisis managers, costume designers, and foreign-country tour guides. 

An Introduction Can Go a Long Way 

The global circus scene might seem vast, but it’s surprisingly tight-knit. A strong impression during a guest artist visit or a NICA workshop can echo for years. Olivia Watts (NICA Alumni) speaks on the importance this 

“At NICA I was introduced to industry leaders- Getting to train with ex performers from all over the world. Attending workshops hosted by NICA introduced me to touring artists and companies that I dreamed about working for. The artist in discussion sessions let me ask important questions from people who had been where I was and was now living the life I wanted to live.”  

Work Smart, Not Just Hard. 

Getting Gigs 

Sure, auditions will get you in the door. But like most things in life, opportunity often comes through connections—and reflects the relationships you’ve worked hard to build. 

So be consistent: how you show up in your day, your creativity, your attitude toward others. 

Consistency builds trust—and trust in circus is, as you know, everything. 

Kyle Raftery, a former NICA student and acrobat, says: 

“NICA was where I found my people. NICA made the childhood dreams a possibility. It introduced me to a community of acrobats and artists that, over the years, became my family.” 

After his career on stage, Kyle returned to NICA. His path is a testament to how networking during your training doesn’t just open doors—it builds a lifelong community. One he now supports as the very Rigger you trust to keep you safe, as a NICA student. 

Networking for Opportunity Is Only Part of the Game 

Without sugar-coating it, circus can be brutal. It’s demanding and never short of challenges or surprises. NICA is an institution, yes—but it’s also a place full of people who get it. 

Speak up when you need it, because you’ll be heard by people who can guide, support, and celebrate you long after the training ends. 

So, Build It Well 

Your circus career won’t be built alone—and it shouldn’t be. The network you create now is part of what holds you up, and what you’ll one day use to lift others. 

Photo by Cameron Grant, Parenthesy.
Published 26 May 2025