Christchurch: CircoArts Programme cancelled for 2012

Christchurch: CircoArts Programme cancelled for 2012

CPIT announced today that its CircoArts programme - the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Circus Arts and Physical Theatre) will not be delivered in 2012.

The specialist facilities that have housed the programme for the last 15 years have been severely affected by the Christchurch earthquakes, and their future remains uncertain.

The programme has not been delivered on the Christchurch campus since the February 22 earthquake, and as a result nine students were accepted into the National Institute of Circus Arts in Melbourne in April to complete their second year of study. The first and third year students were deferred study for the year.

"This is hopefully just an interim measure,” said the Dean of the Faculty of Creative Industries, Dr. Jane Gregg.

"We will be working hard on a plan to ensure that Circo Arts has a home at CPIT, and that we can continue to provide the rich training ground that Circo Arts has proven to be. The programme is pivotal to this specialist area of performance in NZ."

Dr.Gregg says CPIT hopes to be able to offer the programme in 2013, depending on the assessment of damage to its current specialist facilities, and the plans that emerge from that assessment. An announcement will be made on this as soon as these plans are known.

The programme is well known internationally as a trainer of circus performers, with graduates going on to perform in NZ and further afield with companies like Cirque de Soleil and Circus Oz.

"We hope that current and potential students at Circo Arts are able to engage with trainers and facilities where they are situated, and look forward to welcoming them back to CPIT when we have re-established our teaching facilities" said Dr.Gregg.

ENDS

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