Circus student
Emmet Doherty
23
Emmet Doherty, 23, was studying physics at university in Ireland when he realised he wanted to perform. He is now in his second year of a circus degree at The Circus Space.
"During university I was working as a podium dancer/ fire perfomer in nightclubs"
Hometown
Originally from Ireland, now living and studying in the UK
What do you do?
Currently in my second year studying for a degree in circus at the Circus Space
What have you done in circus?
I have worked in a lot of different venues, from night clubs to performing in parades or with interpretative dance companies. My main skills are trapeze and juggling.
What did you do before you became a circus student?
Before I moved to making performing my life, I was studying theoretical physics in university in Ireland.
Why did you change direction?
During university I was working as a podium dancer/ fire perfomer in nightclubs. It was through doing that, that I realised I could make a decent living doing something I loved. It’s a lot more fun then solving equations.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
A rock star
What do you do all day?
A typical day in university begins with a warm-up then generally a dance or an acrobatics class. In the afternoon we have specialisation classes in our chosen disciplines or lone practice time.
What’s the best thing about circus?
I get the chance to travel the world and entertain thousands of people
And the worst?
There is no downside for me yet
What’s your dream job in circus?
Probably working the variety scene on the continent
Got any wise words for someone who wants to be where you are now?
These are not my words, they’re Israel Regardie’s:
Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.
