Piratical, A Cirque Adventure Creative

Assistant Director, FADCA

Brent Durham

Brent Durham has dedicated 12 years to teaching gymnastics, honing his expertise in the craft. His journey in gymnastics led him to serve as the head coach of the Boundless Gymnastics Competitive boys team in Palm City and Stuart, where he made significant contributions from 2018 to 2023. Beyond coaching, Brent's passion for gymnastics extends to his own performance. With a background as an accomplished gymnast and martial artist, Brent has ventured into the realm of aerial straps. He is currently immersed in advanced studies under the guidance of renowned cirque artist, Aaron Koz, reaching the esteemed Level 2 certification as an Aerial Straps teacher. Brent's talent has graced various platforms, including corporate events, theatrical productions, and even the exhilarating atmosphere of the South Florida Fairgrounds Fright Nights! His Aerial Strap act captivates audiences, showcasing his skill, grace, and dedication to the art form.

Guest Director, Choreographer

Edwin Kinter

Edwin (Ned) hails from New York City and trained at the School of American Ballet, The High School of Performing Arts, The New York School of Ballet and with David Howard. He started his professional career as a child actor working in musicals and film. Mr. Kinter has danced in over 60 different professional productions with companies such as Kansas City Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Metropolitan Opera Ballet, Albany Berkshire Ballet and Dances Patrelle. Edwin has worked as a dancer, a ballet master, an assistant director and a choreographer with Ballet for Young Audiences since it's inception in 1985. He has staged over 40 productions and has choreographed over 20 ballets, including Jungle Book, Pirates, Zorro and most recently Snow White, for family audiences. Among his other works are The Father, Water Goblin, The Accursed Hunter and Spring Song. Edwin's piece The Water at the Spring, was specially commissioned for the opening ceremony of the Nanning International Folk Song Arts Festival where excerpts of Spring Song were also featured. Edwin has also served as Artistic Director of City Center Ballet in New Hampshire. He continues to enjoy having excellent artists to collaborate with.

Sets/Props

Joe Marso

Joe, a native of Santa Barbara, spent years as a test technician for Delco, where he specialized in diagnosing and repairing intricate systems like the Carousel 4 Inertial Navigation Systems and F-16 Fire Control Computers. However, he has since transitioned into a Muscle Activation Techniques RX practitioner, focusing on restoring strength and flexibility for a diverse clientele. From professional golfers, tennis players, and the NY Mets during spring training to everyday individuals seeking improvement in functional movement, Joe's practice caters to a wide range of clients, showcasing his versatility and dedication to enhancing physical performance and well-being.

Florida Aerial Dance & Circus Arts ( FADCA) Founder

Maria-Elena Marso, the Founder and Artistic Director of Florida Aerial Dance & Circus Arts, LLC, brings a wealth of experience from her extensive performance career spanning four decades and six continents.

*Florida Aerial Dance & Circus Arts, LLC Artistic Director, Maria-Elena Marso*

Her journey has seen her grace esteemed venues ranging from regional ballet companies to dinner theaters, summer stock, and beyond, including notable stops at Busch Gardens, European tours, Cunard Cruise Lines, and Disney World Productions in Tokyo, Japan.

In her current capacity, Maria-Elena channels her passion and expertise into guiding aspiring talents as the Artistic Director at Florida Aerial Dance & Circus Arts, LLC, where she fosters creativity and innovation within the realm of aerial dance and circus arts.

Beyond her remarkable performance background, Maria-Elena's creative vision shines through her choreographic endeavors. She has lent her talents to crafting captivating productions of beloved musicals, including The Music Man, How to Succeed in Business, Fiddler On The Roof, and many others.

Throughout her career, Maria-Elena has generously shared her knowledge and skills with students nationwide, teaching a variety of disciplines including ballet, tap, jazz, acting, and musical theater. Her teaching journey has taken her to prestigious institutions such as the Adderley School for the Performing Arts and The San Diego Civic Dance Association.

Maria-Elena's commitment to her craft is underscored by her involvement in professional organizations like the American Youth Circus Organization (AYCO/ACE) and her certification through the respected Nimble Arts Program at New England Center for Circus Arts (NECCA).