Circus connects generations in aged care tour

SPAGHETTI Circus performers aged from their early teens to their seventies are visiting aged care facilities in Mullumbimby and Alstonville as part of an intergenerational tour focused on connection, creativity and shared experience.

The Intergenerational Tour brings together two Spaghetti Circus ensembles, Elixir for Life, made up of adults aged 40 and over, and the Power Mighties, a group of 11 performers aged between 11 and 13.

The performers are travelling together on the Spaghetti Circus community bus, known as Busghetti, and presenting short circus shows for aged care residents.

After each performance, residents are invited to take part in gentle circus activities using simple props such as juggling scarves and spinning plates.

The sessions are designed to be accessible for a range of abilities and are followed by informal conversations between performers and residents.

Spaghetti Circus head of school Petrina Hutchinson said the interactions between age groups were central to the project.

“When a 12-year-old teaches a 92-year-old to spin a plate, or when our senior performers talk about learning circus later in life, something magical happens,” she said.

 

“Circus breaks down barriers and creates a space where people of all ages can meet with joy, curiosity and mutual respect.”

The Elixir for Life performers demonstrate that physical activity and skill development can continue later in life.

The Power Mighties contribute youthful energy and discipline, offering residents a chance to engage with young people in a shared creative setting.

Time spent travelling together has also become an important part of the experience for the performers, who share stories and support each other as they prepare for shows.

Spaghetti Circus has been operating since 1992 and delivers circus education programs for people of all ages across the Byron Shire and surrounding areas.

The organisation said the tour builds on its long-running focus on inclusive and community-based arts practice.