Womens Circus

Since 1991, the Women’s Circus has created over 30 original critically acclaimed works combining contemporary circus, theatre and music. At the heart of all these shows are Women’s Circus dedicated members who bring these circus spectaculars to life.  

In 2019 Women’s Circus is creating one of our most ambitious shows to date – THE DRILL. 

ABOUT THE SHOW: Disappear into the world of 1914 for a surreal journey blurring the lines between contemporary circus, immersive theatre, historical re-imagining and art installation. 

Created and performed by over 60 members, alongside a team of renowned artists, this work draws on the original purpose of The Drill Hall (home of Women’s Circus)– service for WW1. THE DRILL uncovers buried stories of this historic site to explore the effects of war on communities and poses the question: what happens to human behavior in the face of adversity?  

ABOUT THE CAST & CREW: For some members this is their first time performing, for others this is their 30th (fun fact, we have some members who have been in every show since 1991)! 

Women’s Circus shows are much more than just a chance to perform; they foster connection, creativity and community belonging. Over the years these shows have paved the way for new generations of performers, riggers, designers, musicians and others to gain new circus and production industry skills in a non-competitive and supportive environment. 

THE DRILL runs Friday 21st November – Sunday 1st December.  

WHY YOUR DONATION MATTERS: As a community arts organisation with deep feminist roots, we value empathy, risk, innovation, and inclusion. We believe circus should be for everyone! 

PLEASE NOTE: If you just want to give us money without a reward, just hit the $2 donation button and enter the amount you would like to contribute - this is the only way you will recieve a tax deductible receipt! 

While we have secured funding for production costs and artists fees through a partnership with Maribyrnong Council and Seddon Community Bank we still need a further $6,500 to make this show as inclusive and accessible as possible for cast, crew and audiences. 

WHERE THE $6,500 WILL GO: 

• Welcome to Country: conducted by Elders of the Boon Wurrung Foundation. 

• Description Victoria: supporting audience members with vision impairment. 

• AUSLAN Stage Left: supporting an interpreted show by one of Women’s Circus nearest and dearest, Harriet Devlin.  

• VR mapped tour: For those who can’t make it and want to get an online tour, or audience members who need to be familiar with the space before attending. 

• Community tickets: providing free tickets to local schools, community groups and organisations  

• Meals for cast and crew throughout the season: A Women’s Circus tradition. More than just a meal, show dinners are a way to come together and share excitement, nerves, the days stresses and become grounded before each show. Particularly important to members juggling multiple life commitments like family, financial hardship, or studying.