Masizakhe Kovi in MOYA by Zip Zap Circus at Children’s Theatre Company. Photo by Glen Stubbe Photography
Discover how cultural and creative cross-training fuels artistic innovation, from Paul McCartney’s legendary approach to staying inspired, to my recent experience at Zip Zap Circus’ mind-blowing MOYA production. Discover how the fusion of music, acrobatics, and storytelling creates a powerful blend of entertainment and social impact—reminding us that exposure to different art forms can ignite fresh ideas and push creative boundaries. Whether you’re a Beatles fan or a lover of the arts, this episode is all about finding inspiration in unexpected places!
I’m Mindy Peterson, host of Enhance Life with Music podcast, where we explore the ways music makes our lives better. And this is Microhance, a micro-dose of musical enhancement.
I recently watched the documentary How the Beatles Changed the World, and I was intrigued with how – even after huge success and after other Beatles retreated to the privacy of rural estates – Paul McCartney continued to actively fuel his musical inspiration and creativity by exposing himself to other art forms and their artists, like art galleries and other visual and performing arts. This sort of cultural and creative cross-training played a significant role in the Beatles’ (and McCartney’s) continued success and multi-generational influence.
I experienced a powerful dose of this cultural and creative cross-training inspiration last weekend when I attended the opening night of Zip Zap Circus‘ MOYA production at Children’s Theatre Company (CTC). Don’t let the venue fool you — this production is for ALL ages; and Zip Zap Circus from South Africa is not your average circus—it’s a powerful blend of performing arts, athleticism, social impact, and, of course, music!
Zip Zap Circus was founded in 1992 in Cape Town, with a mission far beyond entertainment. It was created as a social circus, a way to bring together young people from different backgrounds—often those from underprivileged communities—and help them develop life skills through performance. What makes Zip Zap truly unique is how it merges the art of circus performance with music, dance, and storytelling, creating a vibrant, immersive experience for both the audience and the performers. Zip Zap has performed for numerous celebrities and dignitaries globally, including Nelson Mandela and at the White House for President Obama.
Zip Zap’s MOYA production tells the story of how Zip Zap came to be, told through breathtaking acrobatics that brought regular gasps of amazement and bursts of applause from the audience. The show features unicycle dancers, trapeze acts, comic juggling, and an authentic gumboot dance. The skill and athleticism of these performers is truly mind-blowing and inspiring, and highly entertaining.
Yes, music plays an essential role in their performances, driving the energy and rhythm of every act. Whether it’s the heartbeat of drums accompanying acrobatics or uplifting melodies framing breathtaking aerial stunts, the music fuels every moment. The show features an original soundtrack composed by Josh Hawks that integrates South African musical styles, making each show a cultural celebration that highlights the diversity of the performers.
What’s even more inspiring is that Zip Zap uses the arts to break down social barriers. By working together to create stunning performances, young people of all races and backgrounds learn to trust one another, communicate, and push their athletic and creative boundaries. Zip Zap Circus is a perfect example of how the arts—including music—can be transformative, providing not only entertainment but also hope, unity, and opportunities for growth. It’s a reminder of how music can be a driving force behind innovation and social change; and how the fusion of artistic disciplines can equal creative cross-training in action.
This high-energy, pulsating acrobatic performance left my mind blown and inspired on so many levels, and with a smile on my face. Beyond entertaining, it provided interdisciplinary creative fuel. I left inspired, ready to infuse my own life and work with new ideas. I’ll include pictures in the show notes of my visit, including a selfie with Zip Zap’s Co-Founder and Artistic Director Brent van Rensburg, and my friend Reshma, who went with me:
Here is a video teaser that gives just a taste of the experience:
If you’re near the Twin Cities, Zip Zap is performing here through October 20. If you’re outside the Twin Cities, check out their website for a performance near you. They are on an international tour, 6 weeks of which will be in the US.
If you go to a Zip Zap show, or experience another source of creative cross-training inspiration, I would love to hear about it!
You can always connect with me on email (mindy@mpetersonmusic.com), Facebook, Instagram, X, or LinkedIn.
I’m Mindy Peterson, and I hope this inspires you to enhance your life with music.
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