FSU Flying High Circus

The FSU Flying High Circus is a student-run performance featuring three rings of aerial and stage acts where students execute trapeze, high wire, and cloud swing routines. The shows display a range of circus skills trained and performed entirely by student athletes and performers.

The circus was founded in 1947 by Jack Haskin to promote student connection at Florida State University after it became coeducational. From this initial goal of bringing students together, it developed into the ongoing program that operates today.

Students handle every detail of the production, including rigging, costume making, lighting, and sound. This shared responsibility creates a performance where everyone contributes directly to what audiences see.

Regular performances occur throughout the academic year, with special series during Family Weekend in fall and an extended schedule in April. Checking the academic calendar is helpful since performance availability shifts with the semester schedule.

Through the School of Sports Management, students can enroll in a semester-long course teaching juggling, hand balancing, aerial ballet, and equipment rigging. This structured training lets beginners learn circus skills from the ground up.