Heading to the stage

Youth Performance Troupe

NECCA’s Youth Performance Troupe nurtures the budding athlete, artist, and person by supporting long-term growth in circus and life skills while encouraging students to work collaboratively with their peers and providing performance opportunities.

About Our Levels

We have two levels troupers work in: Intermediate and Advanced.

At the program coordinator’s discretion, students will be placed into smaller focus and specialty groups based on ability level, ranging from Intermediate to Advanced.

A student’s status as Intermediate or Advanced is subject to change based on their experience level with their chosen apparatus/discipline for the year.

For students who are developing the fundamentals of a circus discipline.

The intermediate level curriculum seeks to build a diligent practice of good technique that results in improved skills and developed talent. Students will participate in a coach-led, small-group training format, allowing students to learn collaboratively and develop the teamwork needed for ensemble performances.

The emphasis of their training will be based on body awareness, flexibility, strength, coordination, and creativity, in addition to a broad range of discipline-specific skills.

For students who are ready for a more individualized training structure, with coach support.

The emphasis of their training will be to build upon previous technique and knowledge, with an extra push from a coach to improve their skill progression and creative expression.

Advanced students must be capable of training safely without supervision and are expected to take an active role in setting their own physical and creative goals.

Group training will continue in fundamental areas such as flexibility, strength, body awareness, coordination, and performance.

Structure and Schedule

From Fall to Spring, 2026 – 2027, Youth Performance Troupe will meet twice a week: Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 4 pm – 6 pm.  

Troupe programming will work with the natural ebb and flow of our show schedule, shifting focus as performance deadlines approach.

Skills blocks will focus on developing body awareness, strength, flexibility, and circus skills, while creation blocks will focus on creative expression and act creation.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can view our current session pricing on our registration site.

If you need help with the cost of Troupe, you can choose the “Reduced Cost Tier.”

If you are in a position to support your fellow students who need reduced-cost enrollments, please let us know and we will bill you at the “Supporter Tier.” Your support is appreciated!

Students who show enthusiasm, commitment, and ability to train safely are typically considered.

The program coordinator, in collaboration with the coaches, can advise on readiness and next steps.

Yes! NECCA offers financial assistance and payment plans to help make programs more affordable.

Families can apply for need‑based financial aid, typically covering 10–25% off a session class, youth camp, or workshop per student per session. Check in with us regarding youth troupe.

Payment plans are also available to spread costs over time.

Applications and details are on our Financial Aid page, and deadlines vary by program type.

More Youth Programs

Looking for Financial Aid?

As a part of our mission to make circus accessible to all, we provide financial aid for classes and programs! Learn more today to see if you qualify. We strongly encourage you to check this out, no matter your situation!

Apply for financial aid

Copyright © 2026 New England Center for Circus Arts