Outreach and Education

Wonderbolt is a leader in creating curriculum-based workshops in schools in Newfoundland & Labrador. Working with a number of teachers, through the NLAC ArtSmarts program, we have developed a series of circus arts classes that have been used as a component of the Phys Ed curriculum for all grade levels. This program is highly regarded by physical education teachers for its ability to reach students who are not traditionally engaged in physical activities. At the 2006 Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council Awards, Wonderbolt’s Artistic Director, Beni Malone was awarded the Arts in Education Award in honour of the work our company is doing in the area of physical education for youth and young adults.

Wonderbolt has a long history of working with youth and Aboriginal communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Working with young people has been a central focus of our work for almost three decades. We have worked with the Innu for the past decade creating a series of workshops and successfully producing the annual Kamataukatshiut Festival child juggling

which is gaining national recognition. We are also creating partnerships with the Miawpukek First Nation on the Conne River Reserve and performed at their St Anne Festival this summer.

Wonderbolt also offers circus classes and camps at its studio in downtown St. John’s and a free weekly juggling session. Our camps this summer are a huge success with waiting lists for each week. which clearly illustrates the need and desire for this type of activity. Wonderbolt arranged for eight Innu youth to come to St. John’s and attend the camp this summer. We are also working with Eastern Health to provide opportunities for youth in need.
The core values that Wonderbolt clings to in all its activities is the developing, teaching and celebration of physical activity and skills. Wonderbolt’s works have been geared primarily at the young and the young at heart and they have long provided impetus for audience members to aspire to improve their bodies and physical skills and to participate in the many workshops that the company has long provided.