Winter & Spring 2026 Programming
FLY TEAM PROGRAM
Push yourself physically while diving deep into the art of flying trapeze in this seasonal training program.
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FLY TEAM INFORMATION
The Fly Team Program is a great option for folks who want to reach further into their circus dreams, get back into the swing of things after time away, get into shape for the summer outdoor flying season, or continue training after the summer flying season ends. NECCA’s professional coaches will help you push harder, explore deeper, and fly higher. Our custom-built facility includes a full size indoor flying rig, Olympic trampoline, and heated floors.
This program is for students ages 18 and up who currently practice flying trapeze and are looking to intensify and broaden their training. Age 16 and 17, please inquire about participation in this adult-focused workshop by emailing us.
When is the program?
Winter Fly Team
January 5 – March 14, 2026 (9 weeks)
No classes 1/19, 2/23 – 3/1, or 3/7
Spring Fly Team
March 16 – May 29 (10 weeks)
No classes 1/22 – 3/1 or 5/25
What is the program?
This program is crafted to help you level up your flying skills with individualized coaching based on your goals and experience. You’ll dive into swing physics, master drills that sharpen your form, and build the strength and control to take your flying further. Together, we’ll explore back-end tricks, half turns, catching and returning both in and out of lines, and advanced techniques for layouts, cutaways, and beyond. You’ll also gain hands-on experience in catch locks and teacher training—preparing you to share your love of flying with others. The program wraps up with a thrilling performance in the Flying Trapeze Recital on May 29th!
Additionally, NECCA offers a full spectrum of circus training opportunities, including group classes and private lessons with world class instructors. Following an orientation, Fly Team members will be welcome to train at all Members Only open training times at NECCA at no cost, allowing you to practice your circus skills.
What is the schedule?
Group classes three days a week (8 hours/week) will focus on swing technique, trick progressions, catching and returning, trampoline, and strength and conditioning.
General Schedule:
- Monday | 7:00 – 9:00 pm (overall flying training – swings, tricks, catching)
- Wednesday | 7:00 – 9:00 pm (video review, swing technique, drills)
- Saturday | 1:00 – 3:00 pm (overall flying training)
- Saturday | 3:00 – 5:00 pm (cross training: trampoline, strength, conditioning)
Performance Notes:
- May 23 | 11 am – 1 pm, with a performance meeting from 1 – 3 pm
- May 24 | Dress rehearsal (time tbd)
- May 29 | Final performance (time tbd)
Who are my coaches?
Your coaches are Patrick Sullivan and Chelsea Tunnell.
Read more about the entire NECCA team here.
What is the investment?
Winter: $1900 (9 weeks)
Spring: $2300 (10 weeks)
*50% deposits are due upon acceptance, and the balance is due January 2 for Winter, and March 13 for Spring. Other payment plans can be arranged.
*There is a 5% discount off a second workshop for students joining multiple FlyTeam sessions, and 25% off for students in FlyTeam and an Intensive at the same time.
*Drop in packages may be available based on enrollment, minimum 3 weeks. If you are interested please email us.
Financial Aid & Payment Plans
- To apply for financial aid please fill out this form when you apply for the program.
- To set up a payment plan, please fill out this form when you are accepted to the program.
- If you have been a resident of Vermont for 1 year, you may be eligible for student loan and grant assistance through the Vermont Students Assistance Corporation (VSAC) here.
How do I apply?
There is no deadline for applying – we have rolling admissions until the program is full. However, we have limited spots so applying early will assure you the spot you are dreaming of and we highly recommend completing your application before these dates:
Winter: November 15, 2025
Spring: February 1, 2026
Application Process:
Fill out the application form and include a video of your current skills. Please include any fitness, sports, or circus activities you are currently practicing, and demonstrate as many of the following core skills as possible. (For flying skills, in or out of safety lines is fine).
Flying
- Required: Full swing
- Required: Any selection of your favorite tricks! Catching or not, either is fine
- Optional: Remount, or roll-ups if not remounting yet
- Optional: Turnaround swing with flyer’s choice of dismount
Conditioning:
- Pull-ups: please show that your feet are not on the ground at the start/end of the movement. Assistance with a resistance band is fine. Perform as many reps as possible.
- Back-bend: push up from the ground and hold, up to 30 seconds
- Handstand: Facing a wall, walking the feet up the wall, up to 30 seconds
- Hanging leg raise: Hanging from a bar, lift toes toward the bar as high as you can! Perform as many reps as possible.
Please post your video on YouTube or Vimeo and paste the link below. Be sure to make the video available without a password (unlisted, not private).
Intensive Program & Other Circus Training
If you want more circus during your time with us, or if a career in circus arts is your goal, consider adding on the Winter or Spring Intensive program (accelerated version). It is designed for students with a current circus arts practice who are looking to intensify and broaden their circus training. To do both Fly Team and the Intensive program, you’ll need to apply to and be accepted to both programs. Additional tuition will apply – you would receive a 25% discount for the Intensive program tuition.
Fly Team students are also welcome to add private lessons in any other area of circus training they wish.
APPLY TODAY!
APPLICATIONS
Winter Program: November 15, 2025
Spring Program: February 1, 2026
Video Requirements
Fill out the application form and include a video of your current skills. Please include any fitness, sports, or circus activities you are currently practicing, and demonstrate as many of the following core skills as possible. (For flying skills, in or out of safety lines is fine).
Flying
- Required: Full swing
- Required: Any selection of your favorite tricks! Catching or not, either is fine
- Optional: Remount, or roll-ups if not remounting yet
- Optional: Turnaround swing with flyer’s choice of dismount
Conditioning:
- Pull-ups: please show that your feet are not on the ground at the start/end of the movement. Assistance with a resistance band is fine. Perform as many reps as possible.
- Back-bend: push up from the ground and hold, up to 30 seconds
- Handstand: Facing a wall, walking the feet up the wall, up to 30 seconds
- Hanging leg raise: Hanging from a bar, lift toes toward the bar as high as you can! Perform as many reps as possible.
Please post your video on YouTube or Vimeo and paste the link below. Be sure to make the video available without a password (unlisted, not private).
About Brattleboro
Get the best out of your circus training while enjoying the fun and beauty that Vermont has to offer. Enjoy swimming, hiking, biking, kayaking and snow sports—practically from NECCA’s front door. The West River is steps away and includes a miles-long riverfront trail, water access for boats and swimmers. The vibrant downtown is just one mile away—with cafes, restaurants, galleries, movie theaters, and performance venues for music and entertainment. Ski mountains are 30 minutes away for snowboarding and skiing enthusiasts, while closer to home you can find cross country ski and snowshoe opportunities.
There are many sublets and homestay options in Brattleboro. Check HERE for general information and more details will be available before the program begins.
Need to work? NECCA students have a great reputation in town, and there are many restaurants and bakeries that hire. Dog walking, child care options are also available.
Curious about getting around? There is a bus that comes to NECCA’s front door. During the warmer weather biking is an easy option as well. Having a car will make things a little easier, though we recommend planning to have new or all season tires for winter driving.