Touching Two Worlds: Circus & Storytelling
Performers: Lynn Lunny, Cade Holmseth, Marissa Dorschner, Nastaaja “Coco” Johnson, Paige Cook, Katie Kimball, Cheryl Berry, Elizabeth Erronis, Katie Capistrant, Dylan, Clara Younge, Kristen Shaw, Sherry Walling
A love letter in motion.
This show was created by two artists who lost brothers to suicide and sought healing and expression through circus arts.
Performers use aerial fabrics, lyra, trapeze, fire, rope, acrobatics and cyr wheel to portray the story of mental illness—its moments of deep sadness and pain, chaos, love, and defiant joy.
Inspired by Dr. Sherry Walling’s memoir, Touching Two Worlds, the event honors all who struggle with mental illness (and those that love them).
This circus is unlike anything that you’ve seen before.
Snapshot of the first Touching Two Worlds performance filmed by Engle Olsen May 12, 2022.
Sherry Walling performing to Angel by the Wings by Sia. Filmed at Fly Freak Studio in Saint Paul by Steven Lane
Mindful attendence
This program includes open conversation about mental illness, addiction, and death by suicide. While it is also hopeful and beautiful, the content may not be a good fit for everyone. All ages are welcome but families attending with children may benefit from this helpful guide: How to Talk to Kids About Mental Health. If you or someone you know is experiencing distress, we encourage you to visit our resource page.
To inquire about a performance for your community or corporate event, contact Sherry. You can also support this project by ordering a bulk package of books or by donating directly to NAMI.
Want to fly yourself? Check out Circus for the Brokenhearted.
All performance photos by Anne Fry and Steve Bozeman
Thank you for supporting NAMI
The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota (NAMI MN) is a grassroots advocacy organization that champions justice, dignity, and respect for all people affected by mental illnesses. Through education, support, and advocacy they strive to effect positive changes in the mental health system and increase the public and professional understanding of mental illnesses.