Political acrobatics: Local legislators show their ‘daring selves’ in circus arts
This article was originally posted on Reformer.com.
Local lawmakers may be used to the “circus” of politics but they welcomed coaches showing them the ins and outs of juggling, trapeze, pole and aerial silks at Swinging into Democracy.
New England Center for the Circus Arts hosted the event on Oct. 13 for people to meet candidates and recognize them for their service. Jenna Struble, executive director of NECCA, expressed gratitude for the group.
“You cannot make everybody happy,” Struble said. “Leadership isn’t for the faint of heart.”
State representatives up for reelection Emilie Kornheiser, D-Windham 7, Mike Mrowicki, D-Windham 4, and Michelle Bos-Lun, D-Windham 3, were joined by Vermont Sen. Nader Hashim, D-Windham County, and Emily Carris Duncan, Democratic candidate for state representative for the Windham 6 seat. Windham County’s newest Deputy State’s Attorney George Anthes, who serves as a board member at NECCA, also attended.
Most daring of the bunch were Hashim and Bos-Lun. They tried their hands, and legs, at flying trapeze.
Kornheiser appeared more comfortable with the aerial silks. She and NECCA co-founder Elsie Smith had come up with the idea for the event then developed it with Struble for Swinging into Democracy, according to an announcement.
“It’s important for us to see our elected officials as people first,” Struble said in the announcement. “They have a difficult job representing all of us and making difficult decisions they know will affect lives. They deserve the magic of circus, too.”
The public was invited to witness the candidates “step into the spotlight, putting their daring selves into action by swinging out on the flying trapeze,” according to the announcement.
“They will be able to ask candidates pressing questions while juggling scarves and hoops in interactive community circus events,” the announcement states. “Don’t miss this unique opportunity to combine civic engagement with unforgettable circus fun.”
