Four Ecole du Sommet students brought a twist – literally - to this year’s opening ceremonies for Jeux Francophones de l’Alberta, putting their school’s circus program in the spotlight.
The biennial event features French students ages 13 to 18 competing in various sports, and was held in Calgary from May 12 to 14. At the Friday opening ceremonies, Grade 6 students Naja VanBrabant, Brooklyne Zarowny, Angela Jubinville and Grade 7 student Catianna Culham shook things up with an aerial silks routine they worked on under the instruction of the school’s circus instructor Johanne Martin.
“It’s quite an honour for our school, and our school board,” says principal Yvan Beaudoin, of the invitation to display the circus talents.
Beaudoin said he believed the school’s circus program is unique within Alberta, and word had spread to the games’ organizers. They invited the students to come and show their skills during the opening ceremonies as the theme music played.
Beaudoin said it was obvious news is spreading about the circus program, adding, “They’re very impressed with what our kids are doing.”
Martin said she picked this group of students because “they are very disciplined.” The students had been practicing circus skills since January, but in the month leading up to the games, this group of four has had to work extra hours on perfecting their routine. “I knew these girls would manage it.”
In the lead-up to last Friday’s event, the girls admitted being a little nervous of performing in front of 500 athletes, 100 volunteers, coaches and other dignitaries at the event. But they also noted they love learning “cool things” with the program and were excited about showing off their skills.
“It’s like, a really big honour. It means a lot to us because it shows we worked hard at this, and all our effort wasn’t for nothing,” said Catianna.
