Circus Flavours: Aerial Workshops
Play Make Do: A Festival of Fun for All the Family
Ever dreamed of joining the circus? Upswing’s Circus Flavours invites you to watch stunning aerial acts and then try the skills yourself in one of their hands-on aerial hoop workshops.
Step into the world of contemporary circus with Upswing. Set in the lush surroundings of the Barbican Conservatory, each day features four breathtaking aerial performances from Upswing artists, showcasing gravity-defying skills and extraordinary physicality. After watching the pros in action, you’ll have the chance to take to the air yourself.
Try out aerial techniques in workshops led by professional performers—no experience needed, just curiosity and courage.
There are two daily workshops for ages 8–14 and one for ages 15+. Workshop spaces are limited and must be booked online in advance. Come and discover the joy of circus, up close and hands-on.
Age guidance:
The sessions at 11.30am & 1.30pm are suitable for ages 8-14
The session at 3.30pm is suitable for ages 15+
Children under 18 much have a parent or guardian present during all workshops and performances. All participants must sign a waiver before taking part in Circus Flavours workshops which will provided upon arrival.
Important information:
Appropriate clothing must be worn to take part in the Aerial workshops: we recommend that any clothing should not be too loose and that skin around the tops of the arms, backs of knees, calves and the midriff is covered, no skirts or shorts. Participants should not wear jewellery during the activities.
Please note that this activity may not be suitable for:
- Anyone who has had surgery within last 8 weeks
- Anyone with recurring or serious back problems
- Those with concussions, head injuries
- Those with arm or shoulder problems
- Those with high or low blood pressure
- Those with heart problems
- Those with epilepsy, seizures, convulsions or on medications to prevent them
- Those who are pregnant
- Those with recurring of serious knee or ankle injuries
Play Make Do
Conservatory Terrace
Location
The Barbican Conservatory is located on Level 3, if you’re coming from inside the main Barbican building.
From the Barbican highwalks, follow signs to the ‘Barbican Centre’. Walking from Barbican tube station, you’ll see a steps with ‘Art Gallery’ above them, these will lead you up to the Sculpture Court where you'll see a sign for the Conservatory.
Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS
Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.
We’ve plenty of places for you to relax and replenish, from coffee and cake to wood-fired pizzas and full pre-theatre menus
Access
The Conservatory is on the gallery floor (level 3), reached via the main lifts. Access Automatic glass doors (120cm wide) lead outside from the gallery floor and continue down a ramp (1:12). The Conservatory is on your right, entered through double doors (135cm wide). The Sculpture Court is on your left, up three steps or via a ramp.
Mobility
Limited access for wheelchair users and people with restricted mobility due to steps in some areas.
Assistance dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome.
For more access information, please visit our Accessibility section.
