Circus student
Zoe Jones
23
Former gymnast Zoe Jones, 23, is a circus degree student at The Circus Space. To pay the bills she works as a cocktail waitress and performs with events companies.
Hometown
I was born in France and lived there until I was seven. We then moved to California where I lived for 13 years. I have been living in the UK now for just over two years.
What do you do?
I am currently studying at the “Circus Space”http://www.thecircusspace.co.uk in London. To pay the bills, I work sporadically as a cocktail bartender for various events companies.
How did you start in circus?
I first started in circus by completing a three month intensive course at Greentop Circus in Sheffield. Previously, I trained as a gymnast for 11 years.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
For quite a while I thought I was going to be an Olympic gymnast
What does your course involve?
My course is full-time. We start at 9am and finish at 4pm. Throughout the week we do a variety of things which include theatre, dance, juggling, corde lisse and trapeze, and not to mention plenty of conditioning and stretching!
What’s the best thing about your course?
I love the fact that I look forward to going in every single day. It’s also great to be able to use my body in such a physical way.
And the worst?
Since I have to use my body like a machine I have to make sure that it is well-tuned. This means that I always have to make sure that I’ve had enough sleep, that I don’t drink too much alcohol or eat the wrong kinds of things or else I suffer the next day!
What’s your dream job in circus?
I would love to work for a circus company that is artistic, creative, and forward-thinking–a company which would allow its members to participate in the creation of the shows
Got any wise words for someone who wants to be where you are now?
Go for it! Don’t ever think that you’re too old or that you have to get a proper job. I worked for two years as a cocktail bartender in some of the most exclusive clubs in London and hated it!
