Huyen My considers herself fortunate to have been born and reared in a family that values the arts. From an early age, she went to see her father perform in the circus, where he worked as a professional artist. Since then, her enthusiasm for the circus has blossomed into a deep-seated love.

During the 2019 International Circus Festival, Huyen My (center) and her students receive awards for outstanding achievement.

My began her circus studies at the Vietnam School of Circus and Variety Arts when she was just 11 years old. After graduating, she became an actor for the Vietnamese Circus Federation and continued her training in France at the French National Circus School.

“When I went to France, I was exposed to a new form of contemporary circus. It seemed only right that I return to my own country in order to share my love of the circus and inspire the next generation to pursue their own passions.”

She worked as a teacher in the Circus Department in her previous school, the Vietnam School of Circus and Variety Arts after her return in 1997. With over 20 years of experience in the profession as well as professional practice, My has a deep understanding of the trials and tribulations that pupils encounter. She not only shares her knowledge and enthusiasm for the circus with the children, but also gives them encouragement to persevere through their practice sessions, training regimens and work through their fears.

“When it came time to put on a spectacular show, my students and I worked tirelessly from dawn to dusk to make it happen. The circus training process is lengthier than most other occupations, since it normally takes two years to learn the fundamentals, and another three years to hone one's skills. Because of this, they are less likely to pursue a career in the circus.”

According to My, instructors must be able to adapt their teaching approaches to assist pupils in realizing their maximum potential.

The evolving dream

My and her students at the National Circus Talent Competition 2018.

My noted that enrollment is still a challenge at the moment. Many students from all over the country have to be weeded out in order for the institution to pick just the best and brightest. Each course, therefore is relatively small.

My's biggest delight as a teacher comes from watching her students pursue their dreams of becoming circus performers.

“If I were a circus performer, I would only be able to experience my enthusiasm for a short amount of time. As a circus instructor, on the other hand, I continue to disseminate my enthusiasm for the profession by teaching and mentoring new generation.”

My's "Twirls and rolls on the spinning wheel" won second place at the recent Vocational Educators Conference. She explained that this is a challenging yet beautiful and amazing circus routine technique that requires a lot of practice.

Prior to this, she was awarded second place in the Hanoi Association of Vocational Educators and Teachers. My in particular has instructed pupils to compete in circus contests on several occasions, each time coming out on top.

In the future, Ms.My feels that she will keep on inspiring her pupils to have memorable circus performances throughout their careers, all as a result of her passion and dedication.

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