When I was in grade three, I had this 'little miss saucy' thing going on. Like giving boys cut-eye and cussing in the playground for fun. Once, I ran away from home for two whole hours; packed a grocery bag of clothes with a pair of saucy rain boots; and left a note to my parents: "Dear Parents, I have joined the circus. Goodbye forever".

For anyone who has ever seriously considered joining the circus: Montreal's National Circus School will be hitting up Toronto this February in search of aspiring, young circus artists.

Running for 25 years now, the National Circus School provides complete professional training in circus arts, from preparatory training to high school and college-level programs. After their studies, most graduates are scooped up by leading circus companies around the world, including, of course, Cirque du Soleil

Don't worry if you've never actually done anything 'circusy' before. If you have experience in gymnastics, dance, acrosport, diving, figure skating, or martial arts, consider yourself in good running.

Auditions are by appointment only and the deadline to apply is January 18th. For those still living at home, please ask your parents' permission before applying. It is the responsible thing to do. Good luck!

For more info on Toronto auditions:
info@enc.qc.ca, or toll free 1-800-267-0859

Photo: Courtesy of National Circus School.