Community Outreach
Gugs Rising
Gugs Rising is Zip Zap’s new circus and performing arts programme at Bonga Primary in Gugulethu, created specifically for school-going children.
Running every Wednesday from 13:30–16:00, the programme introduces learners to the world of circus through basic acrobatics, partner work, pyramids, object manipulation, and creative movement.
With two age groups and two learning cohorts per semester (Quarter 1–2 and Quarter 3–4), the programme offers consistent, hands-on training with a maximum of 20 learners per session. All equipment is stored on site, and sessions are facilitated by experienced, independent Zip Zap sessional coaches.
Each cohort culminates in a mid-year and end-year showcase, giving learners the chance to shine, build confidence, and share their new skills with their peers and commu
Social Challenge
Children in Gugulethu have limited access to structured, high-quality performing arts and circus training within school spaces. Opportunities for creative expression, physical skill development, confidence-building, and clear progression pathways into arts programmes are scarce.
Programme Goal
To introduce school-going children in Gugulethu to circus and performing arts, building foundational skills, confidence, and a clear pathway into Zip Zap’s youth programmes.
IMPACT
The impact of the Gugs Rising programme is meaningful and age-appropriate, providing learners with a positive and supportive introduction to circus and the performing arts over a six-month period. Through regular, structured engagement, learners build confidence, basic physical and creative skills, and positive emotional experiences linked to movement and play.
Teachers observe learners becoming more settled, motivated, and engaged at school, while showcases strengthen learners’ sense of achievement and belonging within the school community. The programme plants a lasting seed of interest in creative expression and opens a clear pathway for some learners to continue their journey into Zip Zap’s youth programmes.
For more information on how to join one of our programmes, email
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