Gillian, a student in the adult circus arts class, demonstrates a rope aerial skill.

You can train in the Circus Arts, right here in State College!

Phoenix Academy of Performing Arts, which offers classes for a range of experience levels in skills like aerial apparatus, tumbling acrobatics, and handstands, opened in 2021 and is run by Dmitry Myers and Finda Reichert. 

Myers, who was born in Russia and raised in State College, attended the State College Friends School and State High’s Delta Program. Introduced to gymnastics at the age of 3, he went on to build a prolific resume as a circus, dance, and gymnastics professional and has extensive experience with Flying Trapeze, where he is one of a handful of people to successfully perform the Quad, a highly advanced and dangerous trick where a performer completes 4 full somersaults mid-air before being caught by a catcher. (Here’s a great State College Magazine article that does a deep dive into his circus and performing journey.)

Now, Myers leads the Circus Arts Program and is Creative Director and Dance Program Director at Phoenix, alongside longtime friend Reichert, a State College local since 2011 and former professional gymnast who heads the Gymnastics Program. Together, they’ve fostered a welcoming and inclusive environment for kids and adults to both hone their technical skills and express themselves creatively.

For example, kids in the Circus 2 program are taught how to create their own 2-3 minute aerial act. (For context, professional aerial acts can range from 7-9 minutes!) Starting the process in November, students have a chance to perform in a winter and spring showcase, giving them a chance to improve their skills and presentation over time. Classes focus just as much on technical skills as they do on the emotional performance and engaging the audience.

Circus 2 student Becca shares notes for one of her acts

And if you’re an adult who’s interested in trying something new – but may not have gathered any circus skills along the way! – you don’t need to bring any prior experience with you to class. All skill levels are welcome and each student works with an individualized plan that meets them at their personal starting point.

Dmitry Myers, second from right, with some of his adult circus students

If you want to learn from a professional who’s truly done it all, from wire walking and fire manipulation to being shot out of a cannon, you can learn more and sign up for one of Dmitry’s classes here!