Nora Zoller knows what it’s like to run away and join the circus. She is currently on tour with Cirque Éloize for their production of Cirkopolis, which blends theatre, circus and dance into a dazzling spectacle. Zoller’s special act in the show is the Cyr Wheel – a technique that was invented by Cirque Éloize.

We asked her what it’s like to be in the circus for a living.

SDTC: Did you always dream of joining a circus when you were little? 

NZ: Once I started circus I got addicted. From then on it was the most important thing for me. I put all my time and all my energy into circus projects. Of course, I dreamed about doing circus every day. But now, it is even better. With Cirque Éloize, I’ve got great conditions and doing circus is connected with touring worldwide. I got the chance to visit so many places all over the world. A few of them I probably never would have gone to by myself.

What is the most extraordinary stunt you’ve performed?

I love to be on stage and create an atmosphere for the audience. The circus stills I perform on stage are my tools to create emotions and feelings for the audience.

What is a little-known aspect of circus life that would surprise people?

Sometimes our tour is crazy, like going to five different countries in one month or travelling to four different cities in one week. With a schedule like this, sometimes I’m not sure where am I, which country, which language…

Sometimes it feels good to get a little bit lost. And I’m very happy to meet so many great people at all those places.

Is a work/life balance possible in the circus? 

I don’t see my family often but when we are spending time together, either when I go home or when they visit me on tour, we enjoy this time even more! Everyone is taking time off for activities. In my family, we like to go to the mountains (I’m from Switzerland), go skiing or hiking, and inviting friends for dinner and playing table games. I love this time to recover from all the adventures on tour.

What do you wish people knew about what you do?

For me, doing circus doesn’t feel like a job. It is my passion and I love doing circus, even if the training sometimes brings bruises.

Catch Zoller onstage in Cirkopolis, running until March 18th at Bluma Appel Theatre (27 Front St E). Get tickets here.