ANNUAL REPORT 2023
Acknowledgement of Country
At Women’s Circus we are privileged to meet, train and create on the lands of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Bunurong peoples of the Kulin Nation and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters, communities and culture. We pay our respect to Elders past and present and through them to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.
Marginalised Gender Statement
Women’s Circus welcomes anyone to our organisation who belongs to a marginalised gender.
This means we welcome members and staff to our organisation who are:
• cisgender or transgender women,
• transgender men,
• non-binary people,
• gender diverse people,
• intersex people,
• and anyone who is questioning their gender.
Women’s Circus understands there is no such thing as ‘proof’ of gender.
We will not tolerate questioning of someone else’s gender.
Women’s Circus values each member’s development, both creatively and personally, and recognises that self-identity may change over time.
As such, once members have taken out membership, they will continue to be able to access the services and support of Women’s Circus, irrespective of their gender.
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 2
“In the best possible way, we never just walk into the room and class starts.
In other spaces you enter and are given an instruction and expected to start moving. At Women’s Circus there is chatter and laughter, there’s a formal start to class with an Acknowledgement of Country, there are introductions: names and pronouns. At the start of class the trainer might ask everyone what brought them there / what their experience is. There is space to let your trainer know of any injuries, access requirements or even goals (long-term or short-term) for the class. During terms we’ll often go around and share something from our day or week while we begin our warm-up.
This is such a simple initiative to help us feel connected as a community, to understand where everyone is coming from and what energy they’re bringing into the space, it lets us know that we are valued as individuals and wherever we’re at, it’s okay.”
– Lucy, training member
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CEO and Chair Welcome
Welcome to the Women’s Circus Annual Report for 2023. We’re thrilled to share with you the incredible journey of our organisation over the past year, filled with heartwarming stories, impactful moments, and incredible creativity.
One of the highlights of the year was the release of our 2023 – 2026 Strategic Plan, setting a clear roadmap for the future of Women’s Circus. Our revamped Strategic Plan revolves around three key objectives, each playing a vital role in our success of empowering people of marginalised genders to shape community and culture through circus.
Throughout the year, we brought to life numerous creative projects, including our Teen Performance Program, Momentum, and our annual Member Cabaret. These initiatives not only celebrated the joy of creativity but also fostered self-confidence and social connections among our community. We were also honoured to participate in key industry event, the Green Room Awards, where our Inclusive Ensemble received well-deserved recognition for their outstanding contributions to Melbourne’s rich performing arts industry.
The launch of our Space Connect program, supported by increased investment from Creative Victoria, provided a space for artistic collaboration and skill development. This initiative has not only facilitated artistic collaboration and innovation but has also strengthened our connections within the broader circus community.
We are proud to have strengthened relationships and expanded our philanthropic partnerships and donor base, which has been instrumental in supporting our programs and increasing our financial stability.
As we bid farewell to some beloved team members, Betty Musgrove and Emma J Hawkins, and welcomed new faces to our family, we’re filled with gratitude for the dedication and passion of everyone involved in making Women’s Circus the vibrant community it is.
As you dive into this report, we hope you feel the warmth and joy that radiates from every page.
Thank you for your ongoing support,
Steph Cox
Steph Cox Executive Director
Kristen Bell Kristen Bell Board Chair
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 4
Our Numbers in 2023 76yrs YOUNG Oldest participant 2yrs OLD Youngest participant 33 YEARS Longest member 840 Audience members Paid child care hours 840 Workshop & term program participants 283 First-timers 600 Sector support; rehearsal space hours 191 Members 210 Open training hours 2995 $28,017 4631 19039 Facebook followers Website user sssions Instagram followers Program subsidy covered by Women’s Circus 140 96+ Artists & creative collaborators Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 5
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 6
Momentum Trailer Video
Momentum at the Bowery Theatre
Supported by the Bowery Theatre and Creative Brimbank and the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, and assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia.
Between September and November 2023, we proudly presented the remount of the inaugural work by our Inclusive Ensemble, Momentum, at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans. We transformed this outdoor site-specific piece into an immersive indoor theatre experience, enhancing accessibility and stability for our artists while amplifying the visibility of Disabled artists beyond disability-led festivals. The intimate season sold out and had audiences raving.
At the core of this production was our commitment to accessibility. We tailored the creation process by providing childcare, support workers, and implementing a non-traditional rehearsal and production week schedule. We also incorporated Auslan interpretation, multi-language captions, and introduced haptic vibration vests, a groundbreaking innovation offering 24 touch points of vibration synchronised with the musical score – a first in Australia.
This season of Momentum also strengthened our partnerships and fostered relationships with key collaborators such as Brimbank Council and BoilOver Inclusive Ensemble, enabling us to anchor our work and commitment to community building within Melbourne’s West. Through collaborations with Newmarket Collective, where we explored new technology for the Deaf community, we showcased our dedication to innovation and accessibility.
Performed 16 – 19 November 2023 Bowery Theatre, St Albans
Audiences Access Services Provided: Auslan Interpretation, Assisted Listening through Hearing Loop and Vibration Vests, Captioning in English, Vietnamese and Tagalog, Relaxed Performance, Quiet Space, Audience Accessibility notes, Access Ushers and free tickets for Companion Card and Carer Cards.
Cast: Anso Swann Biguet, Vivienne Halat, Emma J Hawkins, roya the destroya, Tarn Scully, Dr Melinda Smith OAM, and Aera Bradley.
Co-directors: Jo Dunbar and Tarn Scully
Rigging Designer and Rigger: Franca Stadler
Production Designer: Jac Antcliff
Sound Designer: Sharyn Brand
Lighting Designer: Bronwyn Pringle
Stage Manager: Elise Glass
Momentum was originally cocommissioned by Arts Centre Melbourne & Metro Tunnel Creative Program.
“I thought Momentum was really incredible. It made me think a lot about what it means as Disabled people to constantly keep up with a timing that is a non-Disabled time.”
– Jodee Mundy OAM
Audience Paid Artists & Creatives Hours of Supported Child Care 200 13 140 Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 7
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Members Cabaret
Our year culminated with the uplifting Pride and Possibilities, the 2023 Women’s Circus Member Cabaret. Directed by Kate Fryer (Dislocate, Circus Oz) and Sal Frances (Women’s Circus Resident Trainer) the season was a resounding success, with tickets to all five shows completely selling out.
This celebratory showcase featured 30 of our talented members and trainers, spanning across generations and embodying the inclusive and innovative spirit of Women’s Circus. Audiences were treated to outrageous contortion tap dancing, daring roller skating acrobatics, and unexpected circus antics, along with a different surprise special guest performer at every show.
The performances left a lasting impression, captivating audiences with their skill, humour, and authenticity. Reflections from long standing members both in the show and in the audience was that this cabaret reverberated joy. For some performing members this was their first time in front of an audience, and they felt the exhilaration between the anxiety of the unknown and the self-confidence gained from taking their first bow.
We were so thankful to be supported by our member volunteers in front of house and production, in particular Deputy-Chair of our board and long-term member El Boydell, taking on Stage Management.
Performed 14 – 17 December 2023
Women’s Circus Drill Hall, Footscray Audiences Access Services Provided: Auslan Interpretation, Sensory Friendly Performance.
Cast: Alison Edwards, Anna Boddenberg, Annie Fayzdaughter, Jen Hunt, Jenny Pitts, Jess Gardner, Karen Hofer, Kate Cooke, Kelsea Blackburn, Kristen Bell, Larissa McFarlane, Lauren Bartlett, Lauren Wilson, Lindsey Gillard, Lucy Seale, Nicole Herd, Nikii McCoppin, Paige James, Riana Popczyk, Ro Roberts, Sarah Pitcher, Vig Geddes, Vivien Bortot, Vivienne Halat, Xan Jempson, Yvonne Meng
Guest performers: Anisah Collins, Amali McCoppin, Hannie Helsden, Isy ChampagneChittick, Naomi Wilde
Co-directors: Kate Fryer and Sal Frances
Rigging Designer and Rigger: Franca Stadler
Directors/trainers of the Tillies: Emily Ross, Simone Sheridan
Director/trainer of POW: Dorota Scally
Production Manager & Bar Manager: Steph Cox
Stage Manager: El Boydell
Lighting Design: Ashlee Poole
Sound Operator: Sarah Burrial
FoH Manager: Tanija Parker
FoH: Michelle Almiron, Rebecca Bonser, Tess Stapleton-Clark, Kitty Trevaskis
“The performances by these amazing people - with ages ranging from 20 to over 70were sensational. The acts were professional, brilliantly executed, humorous and entertaining, and interspersed with a wonderful array of random, running-joke characters...The entire show was a blast and a joy to watch, and was absolutely loved by the audience. Bravo.”
– Bill, audience member Facebook post
Audience Paid Artists & Creatives Community Members Involved 550 6 35 Supported by the Wood Foundation. Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 10
Pride and Possibilities
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 11
Trailer Video
Teen Holiday Performance Program
Our Teen Holiday Performance Program offered an exciting creative platform for our teenagers to collaborate and perform in their local community. Throughout a week of intensive workshops at Women’s Circus, participants crafted a short group performance, guided by teen trainers Sal and Kelsea. This act was then showcased in various locations across Western Melbourne, activating public spaces and engaging with the vibrant and diverse community of the West.
The collaborative efforts of the teens, aged between 12 and 15, resulted in a humorous show set in a kitchen, blending modern references with traditional circus clowning styles. Each location was met warmly, with friends and family attending the locations specifically to support the group and our talented trio surprising passersby who often stopped to watch. There was a particular moment of celebration when the teens were hit with light rain at Byron Plaza. Together, they agreed the show must go on and many audience members huddled under umbrellas to watch in awe.
Performed 1 July 2023
Braybrook Aeroplane Park, Yarraville PopUp Park, Byron Plaza Footscray
“Amali wanted to do this program again as soon as she finished. She loved having a chance to perform and challenge herself.”
– parent of teen participant
“Leia enjoyed it and increased her confidence”
– parent of teen participant
90 4
Paid Artists & Creatives
Foot Traffic/Audience
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 12
Supported by the Maribyrnong City Council Love Your West Grant.
“Working as an assistant trainer in the Teen Holiday Intensive Workshop and Pop up Performance was an amazing opportunity for professional development and growth.
The program allowed me the chance to work with students from our term classes and encourage them to create and learn new skills.
The ability to work with Sal as the director and facilitator allowed me to observe and work with a more experienced trainer.
In turn, this supported me to gain and build upon skills required to direct and support performers. These included providing feedback, blocking the stage, facilitating storytelling and ensuring that all participants felt confident and safe. Overall I was able to gain amazing experience in act creation and direction.”
– Kelsea Blackburn, Assistant Trainer
Teen Holiday Performance Program Promo Video
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Social Circus Program
Our Social Circus program remains at the core of Women’s Circus, serving as a vibrant hub where individuals come together to learn circus skills and forge meaningful social connections. Throughout 2023, we witnessed a consistent influx of over 200 participants each week, demonstrating the enduring popularity and impact of our classes.
A notable addition to our program this year was the introduction of Tiny Tots classes, welcoming the youngest members of our circus community at just two years old. In addition to our foundational classes like New Crew, Acrobalance, Beginner Aerials, and Verticals, we expanded our offerings to include diverse disciplines such as Hula Hoops, Chinese Pole, Handstands, Stretch, Beginner Acrobalance, and more.
Responding to the evolving needs of our community, we launched a new Teen Aerials class and introduced two new drop-in offerings: Aerial Fit and All Access. These initiatives have broadened access to our programs, particularly the drop-in options which provide more flexibility than a traditional term class.
The impact of our Social Circus program remains as significant as ever, as evidenced by the testimonials we’ve received. These heartfelt accounts reflect the transformative power of circus arts in fostering personal growth, community connection, and joyous self-expression.
191 736 820
Total Number of Classes
Total Number of Participants
Members
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 14
“The
gender sensitive space creates a strong foundation of safety, that the trainers then do a fantastic job of upholding and extending.”
– Training member
“I
always feel at home at Women’s Circus. Although I mostly only have happy experiences there, when I come in feeling tired or stressed I know I can always find support or a distraction from the wonderful people in this community. I’ve seen people need to step out during rehearsals or classes and that’s been accepted and supported. Everyone is given full agency over their bodies and is welcomed without the expectation of needing to be 100% happy all the time. Though it’s hard not to find joy when working with such wonderful, kind and funny people.”
– Lucy, training member
“I
was reluctant to commence circus classes, but it’s been a really healing journey for me because the values are imbued in training and the incredible approach of the trainers and participants. I feel safe to give things a go and form a new relationship with my body. Incredibly supportive environment.”
– Eli, training member
15
Social Circus Program Spotlights
All Access
Drop In ‘All Access’ classes were added to the timetable in mid 2023, and are designed to support neurodivergent kids, Disabled young people and those who benefit from a bit less structure and a bit more space to engage at their own pace. Focused on self-exploration, these classes bring out creativity and confidence in all participants.
“My older child is neurodiverse and although he loves moving his body in fun ways, finds structured class environments really challenging. We are yet to get through more than 1 or 2 classes of gymnastics, swimming, taekwondo, footy etc. Circus was a completely different experience. The
key difference was the trainers who were responsive, flexible, accommodating and more,
and they were very much appreciated.”
– Parent of a kids class participant
Tiny Tots
One of the most popular new class additions in 2023 was our Tiny Tots classes for 2 to 5-year-olds. Led by Franca, our resident trainer, these interactive and super fun classes are designed to introduce youngsters to circus, developing physical confidence, balance and coordination. This is possibly the cutest class of the week at the Drill Hall.
“Augie (3) has been part of the Tiny Tots classes since he was two and it’s been the best experience! Watching Augie become more physically confident under the watchful, kind and fun guidance of Franca, has been so joyful. Augie has gotten stronger, more flexible and more confident on the playground, at daycare and in the world as a direct result of the teaching provided in Tiny Tots. I would recommend these classes for all kids but especially for those who might be struggling with physical milestones and confidence because of the way care, challenge and fun are facilitated by the Women’s Circus.”
– Noni, parent of Tiny Tots participant
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Wednesday Night Acrobalance
Our Wednesday night Acrobalance class, led by trainers Em and Sim, welcomes established and newer community members into a playful acro environment that celebrates diversity in skill, experience and personality.
“We want this class to have a strong focus on community, group cohesion and connection. Skill development is important but we give extra attention to how we package it up and deliver the classes.
We take on feedback from the class, always aiming to centre inclusion and accessibility. Most importantly we have fun, we set silly and novel tasks that move people out of a one-directional achievement mindset and help break the common thought patterns of ‘I can’t do this’.
We intentionally create the space, but it’s members who bring the magic! We are so fortunate to have such diversity in terms of age (20 – 75) and abilities, which is a huge asset. People look after and
challenge each other, and celebrate the wins and laugh together at the hilarious moments. Their energy holds the class, and the active friendliness and inclusion means new members very quickly integrate into the group…and people keep coming back!”
- Em and Sim, Women’s Circus Trainers.
“Wednesday night Acro class is like a happy little sanctuary. We’re a beautifully diverse bunch, with many different ages, body types, backgrounds, gender expressions, and levels of acro experience represented. The sense of collaboration and community support is so strong! ...I’m incredibly grateful to Sim and Em for creating this safe and nurturing space for our wonderful community.”
– Lindsey, Acrobalance participant
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Sector Support
Company in Residence: Na Djinang Circus
This year we were excited to solidify our relationship with fellow Westies Na Djinang Circus, who became our company in residence for 2023 - 2024. Over the year their ensemble joined us often in the Drill Hall, to rehearse, remount and create their works including Arterial, Of the Land on Which We Meet, Common Dissonance and In Place. For In Place, we also welcomed in the wider community of the West for a showing and yarning circle - a great opportunity for our members, Na Djinang and the wider community to connect. We were also thrilled to have Isy and Maggie from the Na Djinang Ensemble join us as trainers in our Social Circus Program. We are looking forward to continuing this important relationship.
Space Connect
Supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria.
The Space Connect Program, launched in July 2023, has significantly impacted the circus community by providing free rehearsal space and open training sessions. This transformative initiative has been instrumental in fostering collaboration, creativity, and professional development amongst both Women’s Circus members and circus professionals.
The availability of open training sessions at least twice a week has facilitated skill development and networking opportunities, benefiting participants from a wide range of backgrounds. 34 Women’s Circus Members have taken advantage of the Open Training program.
For Women’s Circus, this additional program has allowed us to increase the employment of our casual circus trainers, providing them with more hours and income, assisting circus artists with financial stability.
Overall, the Space Connect Program exemplifies Women’s Circus’s commitment to be a key supporter of circus artists and companies in Victoria and play an important part of the Australian community circus sector.
Date of Program: 4 July – 7 December 2023
Companies/artists supported:
• Bridie Hooper
• Throw Catch Collective
• Na Djinang Circus
• 13 Eggs
• GO NO/GO
• Hana Flanagan
• Felicity Tyler
• Le Freak
• Absurd Circus
• Pop It Productions
The shared rehearsal space has encouraged collaboration and connection between circus companies and individual artists, while the exclusive rehearsal space has provided artists with the freedom to experiment and push boundaries without distractions. The provision of well-equipped rehearsal rooms, storage facilities, and supportive staff has enabled artists to focus on their craft and prepare for performances with confidence. Professional Artists Supported Open Training Sessions
Additional Employment for Women’s Circus Trainers Days of Rehearsal Bookings 40+ 50 $14,338 70
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 18
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 19
“Women’s Circus provided YUMMY with a well equipped and spacious rehearsal room prior to our largescale engagement with Midsumma Festival in February 2024. The staff at Women’s Circus were helpful, passionate, and extremely supportive. With our cast including women, parents, queer performers, and emerging artists, we felt welcome and included. The engagement allowed us to prepare for our performance with free rehearsal space, which ensured the fee for our booking went to artists directly and was not absorbed by production costs. Thank you Women’s Circus! Love YUMMY“
– James Welsby, YUMMY
“It was a fantastic experience to be in the space! The project would not have gotten off the ground without it. There’s such a shortage of rehearsal spaces in Melbourne at the moment, not to mention the luxury of having an option for an exclusive space to workshop and develop new shows. It allowed us to dedicate the time to really explore and figure out what we want this new show to be.”
– Natalia Frijia, GO/NO GO
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“The Space Connect program at Women’s Circus has been integral to the creation and rehearsing of my show ‘Hana Fiesta’s Disco Fiasco’. Both of its seasons so far have been self funded and without this incredible resource I would really have struggled to make the work.
The Space Connect program has helped me create the work without breaking my budget and also provided a safe, well resourced circus space to play with ideas and also meet other circus artists. In fact, meeting other artists in the space who are working on a show for the same season has been super helpful to create professional and personal connections and to exchange ideas and information as producers too.
The team at Women’s Circus are supportive, friendly and have been excellent to communicate with through the processes of booking and using the Space Connect program and I am very appreciative of their help and this wonderful resource. Thank you!!”
– Hana Flanagan, Hana Fiesta’s Disco Fiasco
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Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 22
Community Engagement
Throughout the year, we’ve had the pleasure of fostering connections and collaborating with BoilOver, an inclusive ensemble based in Sunbury. Through May and June, we opened our doors to BoilOver, hosting five 2-hour workshop sessions at the Drill Hall. These sessions, tailored to their 9-member ensemble, focused on aerials, clowning, and acrobalance, offering them a chance to explore and expand their skills.
Then, in November, we extended a warm welcome to the BoilOver ensemble for a special Q&A session and a behindthe-scenes walkthrough prior to a performance of Momentum. The ensemble members were delighted to engage with our team and gain insights into the production process before experiencing a sensory-friendly session of the show.
Continuing our collaborative spirit, Women’s Circus also had the opportunity to showcase an excerpt of Momentum in Sunbury. This special performance took place at an event organised by BoilOver in celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities in December.
This interconnectedness aimed to leave a lasting impact, weaving a community of Disabled circus artists in Melbourne’s West.
In addition to working with BoilOver we continued our relationships with Djerriwarrh Community College and Newmark Primary School, providing circus workshops for their young participants.
“As a trainer facilitating a series of workshops between the Women’s Circus and the BoilOver ensemble, it was a privilege to observe the notable progression in confidence among the ensemble members. Through teaching a range of circus disciplines including clowning, juggling, aerial hammock, and partner/group acrobatics, we had the opportunity to foster not only the participants’ physical abilities but also the authentic essence of each member within the BoilOver ensemble.
Teaching such an exceptional and imaginative group was immensely gratifying and enjoyable for all. The Women’s Circus workshops undoubtedly equipped this ensemble with a fresh repertoire of physical skills to enrich their future artistic endeavours. While also being a profoundly rewarding experience for myself—one that will remain etched in my memory.”
– Jess Connell, Women’s Circus Trainer and Facilitator of the BoilOver Ensemble Workshop Series.
Professional Artists Supported Trainers Employed Hours of Workshops Delivered 33 7 26
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 23
Financial Overview
In alignment with our strategic objective to participate in the creation of a robust, sustainable, and healthy organisation and working culture, Women’s Circus is proud to report a strong financial performance for the fiscal year 2023. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first year of implementing our new business model and strategic goals, which were designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of our organisation.
We exceeded expectations by adding back to our cash reserves, two years ahead of schedule. This success can be attributed to prudent financial management and the effective implementation of our new strategic initiatives. We were able to achieve this success whilst increasing the number and breath of both our creative programs and our social circus program, prioritising access, and increasing wages and staffing.
A significant aspect of our financial strategy is the cultivation of a culture of philanthropy and fundraising across the organisation. Through our efforts in this area, we have been able to ensure the accessibility and inclusivity
of our Social Circus program. Donations have played a crucial role in subsidising program fees, enabling us to provide financial assistance to a significant number of participants.
In 2023, we subsided $28,017.44 of program fees. The subsidies were largely provided through donations and impacted a total of 406 enrolments across various program categories, including concession prices for adults and youth, and specialised classes such as Performing Older Women, All Access and Mix Tape, and initiatives supporting First Nations participants.
Overall, our financial performance in 2023 reflects our commitment to fiscal responsibility, organisational sustainability, and the fulfillment of our mission and we look forward to building upon this success in the years ahead.
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 24
Statement of Financial Position
Women’s Circus Ltd as at 31 December 2023
Account 31 Dec 2023 31 Dec 2022 Assets Current Assests Cash & Cash Equivalents $490,873.98 $326,015.12 Other Current Assets $11,568.54 $11,407.51 Total Current Assets $502,442.52 $337,422.63 Non-Current Assets Non-Current Assets $26,941.48 $32,318.58 Total Non-Current Assets $26,941.48 $32,318.58 Total Assets $529,384 $369,741.21 Liabilities Current Liabilities Trade and other payables $7,677.79 $19,208.54 Financial liabilities $326,928.69 $181,167.46 Provisions $37,144.68 $39,081.09 Total Current Liabilities $371,750.58 $239,457.09 Total Liabilities $371,750.58 $239,457.09 Net Assets $157,633.42 $130,284.12 Equity Total Equity $157,633.42 $130,284.12
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 25
Profit and Loss
Account 2023 2022 Income Self-Generated Income $216,086.99 $260,775.68 Government Funding & Grant Income $449,846.91 $212,391.44 Sponsorship, Donations, Fundraising & Philanthropy $65,608.63 $45,585.73 Other Income $2,701.39 $1,419.86 Total Income $734,243.92 $520,152.71 Operating Expenses Adminstration Costs $32,247.55 $26,516.89 Development Expenditure $297.60 $606.00 Marketing and Promotion $8,590.23 $6,240.62 Program Expenses $47,943.70 $72,365.11 Facilities & Maintenance $11,208.00 $13,504.86 Total Salaries including on-costs $583,943.08 $404,845.49 Total Other expenditure $12,074.67 $8,274.80 Total Expenses $696,304.83 $532,353.77 Non-operating Expenses Depreciation $8,181.30 $7,928.58 Loss on disposal $2,336.49 $161.63 Total Non-operating Expenses $10,517.79 $8,090.21 Net Profit $27,421.30 $(20,291.27)
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 26
Women’s Circus Ltd as at 31 December 2023
Our Supporters
Lead Partners:
• Creative Victoria
• Creative Australia
• Maribyrnong City Council
• Pressroom Philanthropy
Project Partners:
Momentum:
• Bowery Theatre and Creative Brimbank
• Creative Australia
• Creative Victoria Cabaret:
• The Wood Foundation
Teen Holiday Performance Program:
• Maribyrnong City Council
Donors:
Lucy Arrowsmith, Margaret Beattie, Kristen Bell, Nicole Beyer, Meghan Bourke, Samuel Boyd, Eleanor Boydell, Sheryl Bryce, Siobhan Callanan, Felicity Collins, Jessica Connell, Steph Cox, Mandy D’Angelo, Alison Edwards, Frances Ford, Emily Garnett, Catherine Gault, Peta Granger, Hanne Grant, Airdre Grant, Toni Jones, Deb Lewis, Larissa MacFarlane, Linda Gale and Ken McAlpine, Jo McIntosh, Julie Misson, Rachel Morgan, Liz Murray, Andrew Murphy, Lin Nicholls, Amanda Owen, Tanija Parker, Melanie Parton, Ruth Pearson, Dilhani Robinson , Suzanne Saunders, Sally Sharman, Donna Sparx, Margot Storm, Robert Stumberger, Devon Taylor, Jean Taylor, Jen & Terry Tekell, Maggie Tekell, Stephanie Watt, Jo Whatley, Geraldine Wood, Dawna Wright, Margaret Young, and Helen Zizys.
A big thank you to Gozdzick Silberbach Fund for their significant contribution.
We are proud members of the Arts West Alliance.
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 27
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 28
Our Team
Staff:
Steph Cox (She/Her) – Executive Director
Franca Stadler (She/Her) - Resident Trainer and Rigger
Sal Frances (They/Them) - Resident Trainer
Hanne Grant (She/Her) - Marketing and Communications Manager
Siobhan Callanan (She/Her)Administration and Venue Coordinator
Aleisha Manion (She/Her) - Program Coordinator Social Circus and Sector
Emma J Hawkins (She/Her) - Finance Manager Jan - March
Geraldine Wood (She/Her) - Finance Manager March - August
Contractors:
Hannah Schieder (She/Her), Bronya Doyle (She/Her), Kate Fryer (She/Her)
Board:
Kristen Bell (She/Her) – Board Chair
El Boydell (She/Her) - Deputy Chair
Peta Granger (She/Her)
Dr Melinda Smith OAM (She/Her)
Maggie Tekell (She/Her) - Chair of Fundraising Subcommittee
Lisa Jumar (She/Her) (September Onwards)
Amy Lynes (She/Her) - Chair of Audit and Risk Subcommittee (May onwards)
Felicity Cull (She/Her) – resigned in February
Mandy D’Angelo (She/Her) - resigned in May
Nyree Fiddes (She/Her) - resigned in September
A huge thank you to our board secretary Mel Parton.
Big thanks to Auslan Stage Left for Auslan interpretation, Tiffany Garvie, Jacinta Oaten, Brig Bee and Alex Walton for Photography and Videography.
Circus Trainers:
Anisah Collins
Anita Alexander
Cassia Jamison
Dorota Scally
Emily Ross
Helene Embling
Isabelle Champagne-Chittick
Jess Connell
Karina Schiller
Katy Burrows
Kelsea Blackburn
Maggie Church-Kopp
Maggie Clare
Maya Green
Meiwah Williams
Merryn Chenoweth
Naomi Wild
Nikii McCoppin
Riana Popczyk
Simone Sheridan
Stella Griffiths
Tarn Scully
big THANK YOU to our artists,supporters,communities, staff, board, volunteers and members.
A
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 29
Photo Credits
Page 1:
Photographer: Tiffany Garvie
Show: Pride and Possibilities, Member Cabaret
Page 2:
Photographer: Tiffany Garvie
Show: Pride and Possibilities, Member Cabaret
backstage
Page 4:
Photographer: Jacinta Oaten
Show: Momentum opening night
Page 6:
Photographer: Tiffany Garvie
Show: Momentum
Artist pictured: roya the destroya
Page 8:
Photographer: Tiffany Garvie
Show: Momentum
Artist pictured: Vivienne Halat
Page 11:
Photographer: Yvonne Meng
Show: Pride and Possibilities, Member Cabaret
Page 13:
Photographer: Hanne Grant
Page 15:
Photographer: Jessica Connell
Page 17:
Photographer: Yvonne Meng
Show: Pride and Possibilities, Member Cabaret
Page 19:
Photographer: Tiffany Garvie
Page 20:
Top left:
Photographer: Dan Rabin
Artists pictured: GO/NO GO
Bottom right:
Photographer: Rachel Main
Artists pictured: YUMMY Kids Extravaganza
Page 21:
Photographer: Dan Rabin
Artist pictured: Hana Fiesta
Page 22:
Photographer: Jacquelyn Hughes
Page 24:
Photographer: Tiffany Garvie
Show: Pride and Possibilities, Member Cabaret
Page 28:
Photographer: Jacinta Oaten
Show: Momentum backstage
Artists pictured: Jo Dunbar, Aera Bradley, Tarn
Scully, Dr Melinda Smith OAM, roya the destroya
Page 30:
Photographer: Tiffany Garvie
Show: Pride and Possibilities, Member Cabaret
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 30
Women’s Circus Annual Report 2023 31
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