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Anthony Congdon and Ian Laidlaw of Duo Românesc.
PHOTO CREDIT: Ron Guerin.
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Two Sailor Circus Academy alums are about to step into the international circus spotlight with a six-month engagement at a Pacific island resort. Anthony Congdon and Ian Laidlaw will soon bring their unique Duo Românesc balancing act to the Fiesta Resort located on the picturesque western shores of Guam, which is the largest and southernmost island in the Marianas Archipelago.
Duo Românesc are scheduled to perform their unique hand-balancing act 12 times a week in a one-hour magic, comedy and variety show called “Encore!” The youthful circus pair have been preparing, practicing and perfecting their act for several months. “We developed a new style of performing and chose new music, new costumes and a whole new routine,” said Laidlaw.
As former students of Sailor Circus Academy, the two artists have clocked thousands of hours training and performing. Laidlaw, age 22, attended the after-school program from 8th grade until graduation in 2012. Congdon, age 20, attended from 6th grade until graduation in 2013. “We did almost every act that Sailor Circus has to offer,” said Congdon. “We took it all in, and we use what we learned to create different acts and shows.”
Both men are quick to credit The Circus Arts Conservatory and Sailor Circus Academy for making their professional circus careers possible. “We learned that coming [to Sailor Circus Academy] is a privilege,” said Laidlaw. “If you want to get something out of it, you have to work for it.”
The pair expressed particular gratitude to Circus Hall of Fame recipient and coach Willie Edelston who provided Duo Românesc with intensive circus training and preparation for their professional debut.
Congdon and Laidlaw said they intend to post frequent Facebook photos and stories of their Guam adventure, which begins July 1, 2015. Interested fans and friends can visit the Duo Românesc Facebook page for updates or to ask questions.
All of us at Circus Arts Conservatory send best wishes to Anthony Congdon and Ian Laidlaw for a fun and fruitful experience in Guam!