National Institute of Circus Arts to Present LEAP OF FAITH, April 4-13

Opening on April 4 2013, Leap of Faith is 70 minutes of pure contemporary circus. The show is directed by former Cirque du Soleil Artistic Director, Matthew Jessner, who distils the circus artform into an entertaining, heart-pounding and refreshing performance of high level skill.

In creating the concept for the show Jessner was inspired by the idea of accumulation of expertise and preparation into physical and emotional presence. Jessner says, "the show is about the individual and collective engagement of the artists on stage more so than an act of decision to perform feats. It is that instinctive moment when it all has to converge and manifest as theatrical action."

This family-friendly show is a wonderful opportunity to introduce new audiences to the world of contemporary circus with its stunning video projections, a dedicated sound landscape and other design elements to transform the performance space into an immersive environment.

The ensemble performance is an integral part of the 24 final year students' artistic and physical training as it prepares them for the wide and varied careers they will pursue after completing their Bachelor of Circus Arts in December. Working with renowned guest Artistic Directors and Choreographers is a privilege for young artists and NICA is indebted to the Pratt Foundation which makes this opportunity possible through the Richard Pratt Creative Fellowship.

Hailing from the USA, Jessner currently lives and works out of Belgium. His extensive international list of credits include; Artistic Director on "Saltimbanco" for Cirque du Soleil, Resident Director and Performer in "Cats" for the Austria, Paris and Belgian productions. Most recently Jessner worked as Project Artistic Director on "The House of Dancing Water" for the Franco Dragone Entertainment Group in Macau.

NICA is one of eight national arts training institutes and offers Australia's only Bachelor of Circus Arts. The course is accredited by Swinburne University of Technology and the institute is located at its Prahran campus. NICA graduates are employed in major circuses across Australia and internationally.

Tickets for Leap of Faith are on sale now at www.nica.com.au. The production runs 4 - 13 April 2013 at NICA, National Circus Centre, 41 Green Street, Prahran. Evenings: 4-6 April, 10-13 April @7.30pm; Matinees: 5, 6, 11, 12, 13 April @1.30pm. Tickets: Adult $30 | Concession $25 | Child U16 $20 | Family $80 (2 Adults + 2 Children). Group and school booking discounts are available. Bookings: www.nica.com.au.