How the MS Circus Can Nurture Dreams
In 2006, The Sharon Academy Middle School introduced an artist-in-residence who would create a truly unique learning opportunity for its students. Troy Wunderle, a former Ringling Brothers circus performer and ringmaster, had regularly visited area schools, however, TSA had a bigger idea. TSA wanted to have Troy work with its students for two full weeks creating and producing a complete circus for the community to enjoy. That same year, TSA eighth grader Jason Pratte was born in Sharon, the third of four boys but the only one to get the circus bug.
Thirteen years later, the annual carnival and circus is eagerly anticipated by young and old throughout the Upper Valley. The students produce a remarkably entertaining and skillful show that elicits laughter, amazement and respect. Just before the final performance of the 2019 Middle School Circus, Jason was singled out to receive Troy Wunderle’s first award for “Exemplary Commitment to the Circus Arts”.
Why does The Sharon Academy take time away from traditional classes to create a circus? The process of creating a story, identifying circus acts to lead the audience through that story, learning and practicing the physical skills needed to execute these acts, creating sets, costumes and publicity, and presenting oneself in a professional manner, are not typically learned in the classroom. Performing for the public also builds confidence and encourages self-discipline. These are personal skills that are useful in the world; for Jason, these skills are also an opportunity to work toward a dream of becoming a professional circus performer.
Jason first became aware of juggling as a third grader but didn’t appreciate the skill that was required until he decided to try it himself. He recalls that it took about six months to figure out that it was not just about tossing balls in the air. Although he attended Sharon Elementary School, he had never been to a circus, not even the annual TSA circus. But, when he entered TSA as a 7th grader, Troy taught him the proper technique for juggling and Jason’s skills progressed apace.
For Jason’s first circus during that 7th grade year, he juggled 3 balls. For his second circus, this year as an eighth grader, he juggled fire. This is not a typical progression. After mastering juggling properly with three balls a year ago, he progressed to five ball, then clubs, then rings, tricks and combinations. Jason measures his progress with “catches.” He’s currently working on beating the world record of 556 catches. Jason’s personal best is 433.
When Troy returned this year to work with the students, Jason asked if he could juggle fire. With the permission of Head of School Andrew Lane, Troy put him through a series of tests to guage his readiness for this challenge. Impressed with Jason’s progress since he saw him the prior year, Troy lent Jason his torches a week before the show. The following Monday, they went outside and Troy taught him how to put the lighter fluid into the torch. Starting with a single lit torch, Jason gradually added one at a time. He practiced daily until the show. Needless to say, the audience was transfixed opening night.
The next day, there was a surprise for Jason at the pre-show school meeting. Troy and Andrew Lane presented his award, a collection of juggling clubs and balls, and a Wunderle’s Big Top Adventure T-shirt that he had long wanted. Troy had been so impressed with Jason’s initiative and commitment to the art of juggling that he was moved to create this recognition for “Exemplary Commitment to the Circus Arts”. Whether inspired by the award or simply well-practiced Jason felt that he juggled the torches even better than the day before. Once again, the audience was amazed..
Jason Pratte ’23 proudly wears the T-shirt he received as part of a recognition of his Circus skills
Jason looks forward to developing his juggling skills along with other circus skills, like riding a unicycle and a rolla bolla. These are also great skills to combine with juggling. One day, he’d like to have a one-man show, performing at events or in a circus. Until then, Jason will continue to practice every day, whether with the newly acquired juggling equipment, with equipment he makes at home or with found objects. He plans to attend TSA high school next year. He’ll miss the circus, but we hope he’ll share his skills during our quarterly Cafe Nights.