spec

Suspended Play & Educational Circus

OUR THREE BRANCHES:

SPECulate

We use research to SPECulate on circus’s potential beyond performance. While Jennifer's Masters Thesis looked at social circus in post conflict areas, Mykelle explores circus through an aesthetic and performance philosophy lens.

SPECtacle

SPEC specializes in creating contemporary circus productions that blend playful theatrics, philosophical musings, and masterful physical expression.
We create both curated varieté shows and short devised works. Our performers are also available for private and community events.
Whether onstage or in the neighborhood, our performances aim to inspire connection, celebrate the human spirit, and keep curiosity in the spotlight.

inSPECt

We use workshops as a tool for strength, empowerment, and training more of the technical aspects of circus.
Beyond the stage, Jennifer teaches spacemaking, emceeing and teacher trainings, while Mykelle teaches aerial acrobatics and philosophy.

About us

SPEC [suspended play & educational circus], founded by artistic and life partners Mykelle Walton and Jennifer Thornquest, is a creative collective rooted in connection and driven by curiosity. Mission At SPEC, we embody all the small things that elevate the everyday—whether in crafting high quality productions, sharing knowledge, or pushing forward circus research. Guided by the maxim curiosity at Play, SPEC encompasses our collective body of work which includes meaning-making, playful theatrics, existential absurdities, philosophical wonderings, and skilled articulation of a body. With reSPECt for both tradition and innovation, we wield circus as a powerful platform for storytelling, skill-building, and collaboration. Joy-slingers. Space-makers. Artists. Producers. Creatives. Together, we suspend play and inSPECt what circus can be. SPEC is more than a company; it’s a dynamic space for experimentation, education, and artistry.

Talk to us

Have any questions? We are always open to talk about your business, new projects, creative opportunities and how we can help you.