Ten years ago, the German wheel was my minor in circus school, and I loved it deeply. After graduating, I couldn’t afford to buy my own, so my training stopped. This fall, I decided to invest in myself and rekindle my passion by traveling from Philadelphia to Baltimore by Amtrak and folding bike to brush up on my skills at In the Dark Circus Arts, under the guidance of my coach, Kelly Jo Chartier. For two months, I made this journey, and during that time, I truly fell back in love with the German wheel. Now, I am determined to get one of my own.

A German wheel is a very expensive piece of equipment, with only a few makers in the world. I am searching for the best option so I can perform at my highest level and give my all to this art form. Having my own wheel would allow me to continue growing and practicing my skills without needing to travel all the way to Baltimore to borrow one. I plan to return to Baltimore in March and April to further develop my skills, but my hope is to have my own wheel by then so I can consistently practice what I learn there. I also run a circus called 2nd Hand Circus, and I hope to one day feature the German wheel in our shows.

I’ve am honored and inspired to have already received a grant from the city of Philadelphia that will cover about a quarter of the cost, and I’m also contributing what I can from my own income. The rest is up to you. Since moving to Philly, my goal has been to help strengthen and grow the local circus community. Bringing the German wheel to Philadelphia would introduce a new discipline and expand the skills and creative possibilities available to artists and audiences alike. One day, I hope to teach workshops and help make German wheel more accessible in the city. Asking for support is vulnerable, but any contribution—big or small—would mean so much and help bring this dream closer to reality.

A German wheel is in many ways can be a unique awkward and very silly apparatus but I think we are in a world that needs more unique awkward and silly things and people filling the world with joy. Circus dose that. I do that! Help me do that!