In 2017, performer Jacob Hunt-Almstetter undertook a once-in-a-lifetime professional development opportunity with Australian physical theatre company Legs on the Wall and the world renowned Circus Oz.
Jacob’s career in gymnastics began at the age of two. He competed in trampolining at four National Competitions, represented Australia at the Indo Pacific Championships in New Zealand 2016, and became Australia’s No. 1 Wall Runner.
Jacob became a Deadly Choices Ambassador to mentor other Indigenous children and represent his culture and community.
For his traineeship, Jacob undertook workshops in aerial, movement, physicality and professional development with Legs On The Wall.
This professional development has led to Jacob becoming a fully-fledged member of Legs On The Wall, where he continues to work and help broaden the company’s audiences in Australia and overseas
12 month Performer Residency with Legs On The Wall and their peer companies (July 2017 – June 2018).
$10 000 - Individuals Fund 2017
Arts Queensland supports individual artists and cultural workers to participate in transformational professional and career development opportunities.
The expertise and guidance Jacob received was invaluable. Whilst working with Circus Oz Jacob was able to develop new skills that would not have been available through his current training.
This experience has given Jacob the confidence to work with others, develop his own projects and see them through to completion.
Initially Jacob wanted to gain experience with the goal of working with Cirque Du Soleil. However because of the support through Arts Queensland’s Individuals Fund he was able to expand his industry knowledge and networks, and revise his immediate career plans.
Jacob was able to receive one-to-one guidance and mentoring, gaining skills and exposure to new methods of physical theatre and a solid career base from which to grow from.
There are more options out there that Jacob is excited to experience.
Brag alert! We could not be prouder of our young man Jacob Hunt. Here he is training this week with our friends at Circus Oz as part of the Blak Flip program. Together Circus Oz and Legs on the Wall are supporting Jacob through a training and skill building mentorship, thanks to support from Arts Queensland. You make us proud Jacob, keep at it! – Legs on the Wall
Sometimes life isn’t just about the end game, the journey is just as important.
Performance and culture can be embraced in Australia and we can bring it to the world. – Jacob Hunt-Almstetter.
Legs on The Wall website: https://www.legsonthewall.com.au/artists/2018/8/9/jacob-hunt
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