A new all-weather trapeze academy launching in Great Yarmouth could establish the Norfolk town as the UK's 'circus capital', according to its founder. The Flighthouse Trapeze Academy is set to open in the historic Empire building on Marine Parade and is believed to be the only facility of its kind in the United Kingdom, offering training from beginner to professional level.
Mathew Herman, the academy's founder, expressed his ambition for the new facility, which is due to fully launch in August. He stated that Great Yarmouth is already making strides towards becoming the UK's circus capital, and this project aims to solidify that position. Herman highlighted that while some places globally have trapeze equipment, a dedicated academy for flying trapeze, catering to all skill levels, is a rare offering worldwide.
The Empire building, which had operated as a music venue until its closure last September due to cost pressures, recently reopened for a series of summer events. Herman has collaborated closely with the Jay family, who have owned the building for 70 years, to transform it into a multi-functional space. This will allow the venue to continue hosting live music, food, and drinks, while primarily functioning as a professional-grade training facility for circus arts at other times.
This new venture builds on Great Yarmouth's existing strong connections to the circus world. The town is notably home to the Hippodrome, which holds the distinction of being Britain's last surviving standalone circus. Furthermore, the organisation Out There Arts contributes significantly to the town's circus profile, offering year-round events and an annual festival that attracts approximately 65,000 attendees, reinforcing Great Yarmouth's reputation as a centre for performance.
Herman hopes the academy will become a global destination for performers seeking year-round training, drawing talent and enthusiasts to the Norfolk coast. The integration of this unique facility within a historic venue underscores a commitment to both preserving local heritage and fostering a vibrant future for the performing arts in the region.