Crank it up with Flip Kammerer
In just over a week, Circus Oz hit the big top in Birrarung Marr with their new show Cranked Up.
It’s a bit like last year’s sensational From the Ground Up, but with some new acts and all the tightening that a year of touring brings.
Flip Kammerer started her circus training when she was eight and hasn’t stopped performing or coaching circus since. Her first Circus Oz gig was in 2008, she’s an amazing in line skater and can eat a dozen doughnuts in one sitting.
She had a quick chat with Anne-Marie Peard and you can win a double pass to the show on Saturday 22 June.
What do you do in Cranked up?
I’m an acrobat and I do everything, but lots of acrobatics. And apparently make people laugh.
What was the first trick you learnt?
A front flip/somersault on a trampoline. This was before I was in the circus, I was about six years old.
What skill do you wish you had?
I wish I could sing.
When did you join Circus Oz?
2008. It was Circus Oz 30th Birthday. Just before that I was teaching at Flipside Circus and Circa, and freelancing as a performer with the boys who are now The Brief Boys.
What do you love about Circus Oz?
That it’s like a big family.
What other jobs have you had?
I’ve only ever worked in circus, as a performer and a coach.
Do you remember your first trip to the circus?
I think it was The Moscow Circus, when I was about four. I remember there were bears in it, I was sitting right up the back and it was hot.
What’s your favourite post-show snack?
After a matinee we’ll go out for dumplings. After a night show, it’s whatever is open on Smith St, usually something from the 7/11.
Who do you love seeing in the audience?
My mum.
What advice do you have for people who want to run away to the circus?
Prepare to be in a lot of pain, it’s not as glamorous as it seems.
Where and what did you study?
I went to the Flying Fruit Fly School and Circus from ages 8 to 18. We learnt all sorts of circus arts there, particularly ensemble work. It was there that I also really learnt how to live away from home.
What was your first show as a performer?
Roald Dahl’s The Twits. It was a collaboration between The Flying Fruit Fly Circus and MRPG (now Hothouse Theatre). I was eight.
How many suitcases do you tour with?
One suitcase and a backpack.
When you’re touring, what can’t you leave home without?
My pillow. Never tour without your pillow, particularly if it’s got proper neck support.
Where’s your favourite place to tour to?
The Republic of Fan Aysia. New York City, USA
What’s your favourite popcorn flavour?
Butter. What other flavour is there?
How many hot doughnuts can you eat in one sitting?
A dozen.
If you couldn’t be in the circus, what would you do?
I’d be a tattoo artist, or a musician –singer and guitarist.
Where do you like to hang out in Melbourne?
Fitzroy.
If you could teach Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott a circus trick, what would it be?To disappear.
Cranked Up
Melbourne: 19 June to 14 July
Then it heads to Perth, Geraldton, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie, Whyalla, Norlunga, Renmark and Mount Gambier. Details here.
