INGRAINED

woodworking meets circus

INGRAINED is a captivating circus performance, dedicated to all hand-workers. In this all ages performance, Jeromy Nuuk entwines his two professions as a furniture maker and circus artist within the intimate confines of a small rustic and dusty workshop. Through the rhythmic whir of a lathe, Jeromy crafts wooden spheres of various sizes, unveiling the unforeseen harmony between juggling and this natural element.

Amid the swirling wooden orbs, piles of sawdust and the relentless daily grind, the artist’s passion for throwing things into the air (and catching them again) takes you on a spellbinding journey that travels far and beyond his humble little workshop! 

INGRAINED is a gritty tribute to the blood, sweat, and splinters that go into every handmade creation.

“★★★★½ - A whimsical and charming show.”
— The Fourth Wall
“The juggling of the three balls was magical.”
— Le Temps
“We wanted it to go on forever!”
— Audience member, Cirk Aalst Festival
 
 
 

Background of the project

The inception of this project finds its roots in the unique convergence of my two professions as a furniture maker and circus artist. With a background in furniture making, honed through years of study and work in Australia, I embarked on a big adventure, leaving home when I was accepted into the prestigious circus school, École Supérieure des Arts du Cirque (ESAC) in Belgium. 

Drawing inspiration from my own identity, I weave together the tangible elements of my own craftsmanship and the ethereal artistry of circus performance. A significant aspect of the show is the creation of my own juggling props, crafted from wood during the performance. This unique blend of my two passions not only showcases my genuine characteristics but also allows me to seamlessly fuse the worlds of woodworking and circus.

At the heart of this performance lies a profound dedication to my late grandfather, affectionately known as "Bapapa." He, too, was a labourer and artist throughout his entire life, perpetually inspiring me to explore the realms of creation and invention. His enduring influence and my deep admiration for the toil and sacrifices of labourers resonate deeply in this production.

In essence, this show is a tribute to the resilient spirit of manual workers. It seeks to honour their tireless efforts and pay homage to their indomitable spirit. Through this performance, I hope to share the captivating world that emerges when craftsmanship and circus artistry unite, leaving an everlasting impression on audiences and continuing the legacy of those who came before me and of those still to come.

 

Info:

  • Duration: 45 mins

  • Audience: 4+

  • Premiere year: 2023

  • Location: Indoor and outdoor (with conditions)

  • Build up: 2 hours

  • Ideal capacity: 100-200

  • Stage Dimensions: 5x5m minimum. Minimum Height: 4m

Credits:

  • Concept: Jeromy Nuuk

  • Performance: Jeromy Nuuk

  • Direction: Liisa Nuuk

  • Dramaturgical mentoring: Adam Opus

  • Outside Eye: Vincent Bruyninckx

  • Juggling Outside Eye: Luis Sartori do Vale

  • Radio presenter: Ella Norton

  • Radio Sweepers: AdamBear

  • Costumes: Liisa Nuuk

  • Scenography: Jeromy Nuuk & Liisa Nuuk

  • Production: Hands some Feet

  • Supported by: Arts Promotion Centre Finland (Taike), Station Circus, UP - Circus and Performing Arts, La Roseraie, Pro Helvetia – Swiss Arts Council, Sirkus Faktori

  • Special thanks: Adam Sallur, Ben Kotovski-Steele, Jackie Uhd, Aidan Bayliss, Anselmi Kaisanlahti, Paavo Näykki, Esa Alhola, Heikki Järvinen.


Pictures: Thomas Andrien, UP - Circus & Performing Arts, Liisa Nuuk, Malik Beytrison, Nikita Thévoz