On Wed 20 November, members of one of our DAS (Doorstep Arts Studio) course took part in a circus skills workshop, led by professional touring artist Poppy Plowman. After watching Poppy’s show ‘Turk(ish)’, which included her demonstrating incredible circus skills, Wednesday Seniors got a chance to have a go themselves. Thanks so much Poppy – we loved meeting you!
In Turk(ish), Poppy Plowman, a British circus artist with Turkish Cypriot heritage, shares her personal story of navigating societal pressures and rigid beauty standards. Through her performance, she conveys an essential truth: that our bodies, exactly as they are, hold immense power and beauty.
Using tightwire & hair hanging, Poppy pushes her body to incredible limits while also celebrating its inherent worth. Poppy’s message resonates: that our physical selves, often subjected to judgment and scrutiny, deserve to be loved and honoured.
Following the performance, Poppy led a workshop that turned her message into action. She encouraged participants to each take a turn on the tightwire, and engage in a simple circus-inspired movements, focusing not on perfection but on finding joy in physical expression.
The workshop wasn’t about mastering a skill, it was about feeling present in your body and realising its worth, no matter your age or ability. Poppy’s warmth and encouragement created a safe space for everyone to have a go and support one another through laughter and encouragement.
The DAS Wednesday Seniors are incredibly grateful to Poppy Plowman for sharing her talents and message with us. Through Turk(ish), they have inspired us all to embrace our bodies and celebrate ourselves just as we are. For young people in particular, this is a vital message: you are enough and your body is strong!
