Refugee Program

Westside Circus has been involved in delivering large-scale circus programs to refugee and newly-arrived young people since 2004. Through projects such as Positive Settlement, the Welcome Place, Jumpjet and now Homecoming, we are using circus as the tool to explore personal growth and self expression, as well as linking these young people to broader support networks in the community.

Homecoming (2009 - 2011)

The Westside Circus, in partnership with the Migrant Resource Centre North-West Region (MRCNW) is delivering a community cultural development project entitled Homecoming.

The project brings circus and performance to refugee and newly arrived young people in the outer Western regions of metropolitan Melbourne and the North Melbourne / Kensington area. Homecoming takes the form of several programs, one each in the City of Brimbank, City of Moonee Valley, City of Maribyrnong and the City of Melbourne.

With partnership development, circus skill training, performance making and leadership components, the Homecoming Circus project is having a lasting impact on the lives of young refugees and on cultural development in the region.

The Homecoming Circus project provides opportunities for personal growth and expression through participation in a 'safe' arts and community-based activity.

It also increases participants' knowledge of support services and assists with settlement issues.

The circus training program directly builds confidence through personal expression and the development of individual ideas in a group context.

The performance program invites the community and general public to share in the expression of the participants building empathy, knowledge and respect.

The leadership and training components of the project helps young people to help others and to become active members of their community.

This arts activity works towards making a significant impact on the development of a healthy community in the Western and Central regions of Melbourne.

Contact the Westside Circus Program Manager for more information.