SPECulate
We use research to SPECulate on circus’s potential beyond performance. Exploring intersections with education, philosophy, and peacebuilding, our work delves into how circus fosters resilience, sparks dialogue, and transforms communities.
SPECtacle
SPEC specializes in creating contemporary circus productions that blend playful theatrics, philosophical musings, and masterful physical expression. Our full-length shows are equal parts existential and exhilarating, while our variety-style performances—sometimes sexy, sometimes silly, and often both—showcase the vibrant acts of local artists.
We’re proud to produce community-driven projects like Front Yard Circus, a traveling troupe spreading joy during the pandemic, and The Welcome Act, a children’s show combining acrobatics and clowning to help resettled refugee kids adjust to new lives and educational environments.
Whether onstage or in the neighborhood, our performances aim to inspire connection, celebrate the human spirit, and keep curiosity in the spotlight.
inSPECt
Workshop & Engagement
Circus as a tool for strength, empowerment, and introspection.
Beyond the stage, SPEC fosters growth across the SPECtrum of skill levels with workshops designed for professional and recreational circus artists alike.
Interested in our workshops?
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About us
SPEC [suspended play & educational circus], founded by artistic and life partners Mykelle Walton and Jennifer Thornquest, is a creative collective rooted in connection and driven by curiosity.
Mission
At SPEC, we embody all the small things that elevate the everyday—whether in crafting high quality productions, sharing knowledge, or pushing forward circus research.
Guided by the maxim curiosity at Play, SPEC encompasses our collective body of work which includes meaning-making, playful theatrics, existential absurdities, philosophical wonderings, and skilled articulation of a body. With reSPECt for both tradition and innovation, we wield circus as a powerful platform for storytelling, skill-building, and collaboration.
Joy-slingers. Space-makers. Artists. Producers. Creatives. Together, we suspend play and inSPECt what circus can be. SPEC is more than a company; it’s a dynamic space for experimentation, education, and artistry.
Talk to us
Have any questions? We are always open to talk about your business, new projects, creative opportunities and how we can help you.