Connecting body and brain through circus

A mesmerizing blend of movement, rhythm and coordination took centre stage at the Golden Civic Centre as a dozen eager participants explored the art of poi. Hosted by the A-Muse Troupe, the recent Poi Masterclass provided an exciting opportunity for both youth and adults to master this ancient skill, which has its roots in the Māori culture of New Zealand.

Since 2009, A-Muse Troupe has been a vibrant presence in Golden, with over 40 artists performing at local events through dance, stilting and circus arts. With support from Columbia Basin Trust’s Arts and Culture Program (delivered by Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance), the troupe brought expert poi spinners Nick Woolsey and Kay Spinner from Vancouver to lead the weekend masterclass.

Events like this are part of the Trust’s ongoing commitment to ensuring Basin residents have access to diverse arts, culture, and heritage experiences.

Poi, which involves swinging tethered weights in rhythmic and geometric patterns, offers both artistic and cognitive benefits. “The contralateral movement involved in poi is very beneficial to the body and mind,” explained Sarah Wegelin, poi artist and teacher with A-Muse Troupe. “It helps connect the left and right side of the brain, and the body to the brain. It is like a puzzle dance for the mind.”

The masterclass focused on group and partner poi dance, with students progressing in their own way. For Golden Secondary School grade 10 student Malcolm Labonville, the masterclass was both fun and rewarding.

“Having the chance to take a master poi class was amazing—it was so much fun; the group laughed so much. After learning the new skills, poi has quickly become one of my new favourite circus acts,” he said. “Nick and Kay made it so easy to learn—they’ve been in circus for years and it shows.”

Golden audiences will have the chance to see the newly trained poi spinners in action.

A-Muse Troupe will take the stage at Ember Fest on February 15, 2025, showcasing the dynamic energy of poi and circus arts.

Lead image: The performing art of poi is a skill that promotes wellbeing by helping to balance the physical and cognitive. Columbia Basin Trust photos

Columbia Basin Trust

Article Share