Imagine dedicating your life to the captivating world of circus arts. Right here in Brussels stands the École supérieure des Arts du Cirque ESAC. It is a place where dreams take flight and gravity is merely a suggestion.
ESAC is not just a school. It is a vibrant hub where the traditions of circus blend with modern artistic expression. ESAC is one of the few colleges globally that offers circus training. This training leads to a recognized diploma. Others include institutions in France, Canada, and the UK.
Founded in 1981 as L’Ecole sans filet, ESAC has evolved into a prestigious institution. In 2003, the French Community of Belgium officially recognized it. ESAC became the 17th institute of Higher Education in the Arts.
ESAC offers a three-year course. Students earn a bachelor’s degree. This degree is in performing arts and broadcasting and communication techniques with a focus on circus arts.
The curriculum is diverse. It includes specialized circus skills and dynamic acrobatics. Static acrobatics and trampoline training are also key. Students engage in specific physical preparation. Dance and theatre courses round out their training. They also study stage management. Circus engineering is taught. Students learn about law and arts production. Science is also part of the curriculum. They study anatomy biomechanics and dietetics.
ESAC moved to the CERIA campus in September 2017. It occupies a building designed specifically for circus arts. The facilities include a large bright space for learning circus techniques. A studio is dedicated to creation. It has a high ceiling for trampoline practice.
The school’s mission is clear. It aims to train artists. These artists will integrate research and creation into the contemporary circus. They will create new forms. They will pioneer new approaches to collective creation.
The building itself is an integral part of the ESAC experience. The design balances respect for tradition. It accommodates modern artistic practices. The school includes lecture rooms. There are dedicated halls for training dance drama acrobatics and trampolines. A theater provides a space for performance.
The integration of old and new is seamless. The original boiler house has been renovated. A new building has been added. The new construction ties in perfectly with the campus renovation.
The spaces within ESAC foster a sense of community. Students can see one another. They feel part of something larger. The creative space is designed like a black box. Windows are positioned low. Students can see the campus. They can be seen by others.
ESAC is more than just a place of learning. It is a launchpad for innovative artists. They redefine the boundaries of circus arts. As you stand here feel the energy of creativity. The École supérieure des Arts du Cirque is shaping the future of circus.