Le Cirque de Merton

Elementary school’s circus arts curriculum a dazzling attraction

By Andrew Soong

One student, who transferred to Merton Elementary School as a result of incessant bullying, is now an expert unicyclist. Another, who found it painfully hard to speak in public, recently stood up in an auditorium and addressed an assembly of over 200 people. A third student, whose family issues prevented him from attending school, is now having his best academic year ever.

Since 2005, Merton Elementary in Côte St. Luc has offered its students an opportunity to run away with the circus through the school’s circus arts curriculum and annual Merton Circus performances.

“The circus arts allows kids to tap into different types of challenges,” said physical education teacher Romolo Finelli (a.k.a. Molo), a former Olympian and member of the national trampoline team. “It also gives kids the opportunity to shine in other aspects of life.”

Merton’s circus curriculum gives children the opportunity to not only develop and refine motor skills and coordination, but also develop life skills not normally accessible at more conventional elementary schools. Moreover, the circus arts have made a difference to many kids involved in the program, with many developing a greater sense of self-esteem.

“Even the shy kids get confidence,” said Merton educator Antoinette Romano.

Pointing to one of the circus students, Romano added, “The circus has made a big difference for kids such as this student, who was so shy at first. After the circus, she has really become more outgoing.”

The year-end show (which was held last week) is the brainchild of Finelli and Merton principal Raizel Candib. It was Finelli who originally incorporated juggling, unicycle riding and acrobatics into his gym curriculum, but it was Candib who five years ago suggested a year-ender. According to Candib, after seeing Molo’s class in 2005, “He had to put on a show.”

Since then, the school and the students prepare all year for the event. Everyday at recess and lunchtime, when school is in session, the gymnasium is awash with children practicing their juggling and riding unicycles. You’ll even find some suspended in mid-air, working the rings.

“I don’t have to motivate the kids here,” said Finelli.

Romano’s own children, now teenagers, attended Merton and still talk about their time at the school. “The kids always look forward to it and it also reflects in their schoolwork,” she said.

“The show itself is important because of the cooperation necessary for changing the different acts and the setup.”

Some students, such as 11-year-old Michelle Dvorkin, also continue the circus arts outside of the school and also attend the National Circus School at TOHU in Montreal’s St. Michel district.

The three-year Merton Circus veteran was introduced to circus arts by a friend and said she was happy when her family moved into Merton’s district.

“I love the circus,” said the bright-eyed Dvorkin. “I was a little nervous in the beginning, but it gets better every year. When other schools come, I like to perform for them.”