We had a showstopper day with Andrew Van Buren sharing Philip Astleys story and legacy plus workshoping his ice breaking circus skills with the Regeneration Brainery team.
Howard Metcalf of Pierre Angulaire wrote: “Andrew, from a personal perspective, I though the presentation and the circus skills was the highlight of the day. I had not appreciated your ability to “perform” prior to yesterday morning and it served as a great way to bring the group out of their shells. I have also acquired a new interest in Mr Astley and the history of the circus so you definitely have a new convert! Tellingly, we made references throughout the day to passion. Finding something you are passionate for. Being passionate about where you are from. Being passionate about making difference in your community. We could not have had a better demonstration of this than you input during the morning session which really helped to frame the day around those themes of passions, commitment and self belief. I am going to practice my juggling now.”
Regeneration Brainery Report: “Andrew Van Buren and Allyson along with the philipastleyprojects team started the day by diving into the fascinating origins of the modern circus and its deep ties to Newcastle-under-Lyme. Our Brainees gave circus skills a go … and even the industry pros uncovered a few hidden talents!”
Then it was from big tops to big ideas, as Pierre Angulaire shared why the right project manager can make all the difference. From turning car parks into communities to giving shopping centres a serious glow up, regeneration never looked better! 
After some behind-the-scenes site tours, we switched gears for a fast-paced networking session. Brainees connected with design professionals, sparked fresh ideas and shared big visions. The energy was off the charts! 
Simon McEneny, Deputy Chief Executive of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, spoke about his career journey and why public and private partnerships are key to ambitious regeneration. His advice? In the words of Baz Luhrmann: “Do one thing every day that scares you.”
To top it all off, we heard from Faizan, a Regen Brainery Ambassador turned rising star, who shared how last year’s bootcamp launched him into a brand new career path.
One word: inspiring.
#RegenerationBrainery#StokeBootcamp#NextGen#CircusSkillsAndCityThrills
Van Buren Victorian Wonders Show & Circus Workshops
#circusworkshop#circusskills#andrewvanburen#philipastley#philipastleyprojectscic#philipastleyprojects#corporateentertainment#entertainment
#PhilipAstleyCentre#centreupdate#philipastleyprojectscic#circusheritage
For more information about our circus skills packages and options within the centre or in your venue contact: deepshikha@astleycentre.org.uk or avanburen@aol.com
Philip Astley Centre, 25 Merrial St, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 2AE
