Martika | Breaks, Reversals, and the Opposite Current, Oh My!

About Martika

Martika is an international variety entertainer based in Kansas City, MO. She is the C.E.O. of KC Entertainment Services, LLC. Born into a military family, Martika began traveling the world at a young age. This exposure to international performers sparked her interest in the circus arts, and at the age of 8 she ignited her passion for the performing arts through training in jazz dance and classical ballet. Her passion for dance flourished when she discovered hula hooping.

In 2008, Martika sought out the best international teachers in fire arts, escapology, and sideshow danger stunts to further her knowledge. She is Kansas City’s only woman sword swallower and the only one woman stunt show of her kind in the Midwest.

Martika has since been featured on numerous local news outlets such as Fox 4 News KC and Lawrence Business Magazine. Martika graces the audience with her playful charm. Don’t let this fool you… from hula hooping with barbed wire to eating fire, her spectacular show will make the audience laugh and leave them asking… “HOW DID SHE DO THAT!? I want to see more!”

Breaks, Reversals, and the Opposite Current, Oh My!
Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM

This workshop is for hoopers of all levels! Still learning the basic? Needing a harder challenge in your practice? No problem. We begin the first 5 minutes with circus style hoop drills over the basics, where we play with and nurture our opposite current. We will dive right into the breaks, and reversals. Covering breaks on and off the body, providing new insight to the many areas of our bodies that one can use to stop the rotation of the hoop. Come with an open mind and heart for this workshop can be challenging on not just the mental and physical aspects of oneself.

Avi | Introduction to Foot Juggling

About Avi
Avi Kritzman is an award winning circus artist and foot juggler from the Chicago Area. Avi fell in love with the circus at the age of 23, immediately after his first recreational circus arts classes despite having no prior experience in any physical discipline. This newfound drive to pursue circus professionally brought him to Biddeford, Maine, to The Sellam Circus School. Under the mentorship of master coach Sellam el Ouahabi, Avi developed foundations in static trapeze, hand balancing, contortion, and antipodism, better known as foot juggling.

His work has brought him across the United States, performing with companies and festivals such as Lone Star Circus, American Circus Fest, and 47th Annual Madfest. He is also known to teach workshops in foot juggling and flexibility for adults.

Introduction to Foot Juggling
Monday, April 8, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Foot Juggling, or antipodism, is the practice of juggling with the feet while the juggler lies on their back. It is a rare circus art with separate traditions all over the world. In this workshop, learn the fundamentals of throwing, kicking, and spinning with your feet! Instruction will be with cylinder props and large balls.

Cassandra and Ben | Abracadabra, it’s Magic!

About Cassandra and Ben
The Magic of Cassandra & Ben Nemzer:Come witness the impossible with master magicians Cassandra and Ben Nemzer! As seen on Netflix, Apple +, Fox Sports, & Comedy Central; These two magicians present a nonstop journey of wonder, excitement and laughter. Through jaw-dropping magic, audience participation, and even CRAZY card tricks; This duo creates one once in a lifetime moment after another! Cassandra has been seen on countless stages all over the world and has brought her unique brand of magic to literally hundreds of audiences.

Often referred to as “The Songstress of Magic,” because of her unique ability to combine magic and music together; Her magical voice has graced the stages of Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and she’s even performed with the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic. Cassandra is a regular headliner at the world famous Hollywood Magic Castle and some of her TV magic credits include Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and even doing card tricks on the hit TV show, Let’s Make A Deal! Ben Nemzer is a globally traveling comedy magician and mentalist who makes his homes in both Los Angeles and New York City. Ben regularly performs for corporate functions and exclusive gatherings around the country, as well as on cruise ships, for colleges, casinos, resorts.In Manhattan he regularly stars in the longest running off-Broadway magic show in New York City History, Monday Night Magic.

He is often a guest performer for Speakeasy Magick at the McKitrick Hotel and is a performing member of the legendary New York Friars Club and the world famous Hollywood Magic Castle.Currently, Ben is a series regular on the Science Channel’s Strange Evidence as an Expert Magician and he’s also been seen on Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, the Discovery Network, Fox Sports and this upcoming season of the hit TV show, Let’s Make A Deal!

Abracadabra, it’s Magic
Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Join master magicians Cassandra & Ben Nemzer with this fun, hands-on workshop. They will teach easy and astounding magic tricks using items you can find from around the house or office. Come learn how much fun it is to do the impossible!

Mateo Bolillo | Handstands and Inversions

About Mateo Bolillo

With over 30 years of experience as a high-level gymnast and performer for Cirque Du Soleil, I have dedicated my life to helping individuals like you reach their full potential and create extraordinary lives. I was the Winner of the 2016 US aerial championship in innovative and Unique Apparatus, I made my Las Vegas debut in Cirque Du Soleil’s KA and have continued showcasing my exclusive act for venues all over the world.

My life mission is to help people in a holistic way using Handstand and Calisthenics because it changed my life. I use amazing fitness tools to transmit and channel powerful mindset and elevate people spiritually  in order to get the 3 M’s in their lives: Movement, Mindset and Mastery.

I believe that everyone has the power to achieve greatness and unlock their true potential. Whether you’re an athlete, a professional, or someone who simply wants to live a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life, I am here to guide you on your journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Handstands and Inversions
Sunday, April 7, 2024, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Take your handstands to the next level with Mateo Bolillo! In this workshop you will practice getting upside down on your own and with a partner. Mateo will take you through all the warm-up, prep, and drills you need for your inversions. Come have FUN with your handstands!

*Please bring a yoga mat