Troupe
Community Circus School
Troupe is a nonprofit circus school asking, “Whatever happened to running away with the circus?” Returning to the radically inclusive roots of the big top, Troupe offers free programs to youth and young adults navigating poverty, housing instability, and systemic exclusion. Circus is more than a spectacle—circus is throwing caution to the wind while knowing you have somewhere safe to land.
Designed by Lily Rosen and mentored by Alex Bakker (CD at Rethink).
It’s “troupe,” not “trope.”
Circuses historically placed outcasts in the center of the ring, displaying the extraordinary to an often close-minded public. But infamous travelling troupes of the 19th century were still oppressive, touting these entertainers as “freaks.” Troupe reclaims circus as a place of belonging without exploitation, accepting and protecting performers of all genders, sexualities, ethnicities, and abilities.
Troupe’s visual identity draws from the circular motifs of the circus—rings, hoops, and a sense of unity. The compressed logo suggests a tight-knit community, while vibrant, fanfare-inspired colours spotlight joy. These carry through every touchpoint: merch becomes wearable pride and outreach, billboards sensationalize, and the homepage welcomes you to be bold and take flight.
