The circus came to Hackney for half-term as charity the Hackney Shed hosted a workshop for youngsters.

Hackney Gazette: The Hackney Shed putting on a circus workshop for childrenThe Hackney Shed putting on a circus workshop for children (Image: Archant)

Two workshops took place on Wednesday and Thursday last week, with separate sessions for eight- to 11-year-olds and 11-to-17 year-olds.

Professional circus performer Kaveh Rahnama was hired to provide lessons for the youngsters, teaching them skills such as juggling, acrobatics, hula hoop and stilt-walking to name just a few.

“We were delighted with the workshops,” said Barry Fitzgerald, co-ordinator at the Hackney Shed.

“Both days were a great success and the sense of fun, engagement and skill from the young people was incredible.

Hackney Gazette: The Hackney Shed putting on a circus workshop for childrenThe Hackney Shed putting on a circus workshop for children (Image: Archant)

“It was just amazing to see how quickly they took to difficult skills such as arco-balance and stilt walking.

“The level of focus was fantastic and just so lovely to see how well they all worked together.”

Established in 2001, the Hackney Shed is a performing arts group for young people.

It operates out of the BSix college building in Kenninghall Road, Upper Clapton.

They run three clubs for differing age groups: “Children’s Theatre” for those aged seven to 11, “Youth Theatre” for 11- to 16-year-olds and “Hackney Shed +” for those aged 16 to 19.

Visit hackneyshed.org.uk for more