VICKI DELA, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
“I fell in love with Circus because of it’s artistry. I stay in love with circus because it is a space for people to explore human connection – and to see the potential for the extraordinary in other human beings.”
Vicki Dela Amedume initially trained as a research scientist, entering the circus world in 1997. She performed and created aerial and circus-based work in the UK and worldwide, working across all spheres of circus from traditional touring tented circuses to large-scale outdoor spaces and intimate touring indoor theatre. She founded Upswing to bring new artists and experiences to the stage, and beyond that reflect a dynamic and diverse world.
Always looking for innovative ways to stretch the art form, Vicki Dela is a dedicated leader in the sector, working widely to develop established and emerging artists. From guest lecturing at Kings College London, Central School of Speech and Drama, School of Circus and Dance of Stockholm University, The National Centre for Circus Arts and Circomedia in Bristol, alongside Upswing’s own innovative Artist Development Programmes that create strategic interventions to support talent and leadership development of artists underrepresented in Circus including the award-winning short film Circus Flavours On Screen and residencies like Flex Lab.
In addition to her role at Upswing, Vicki is an Associate Director at The New Vic and Creative Director at The Albany, Deptford. Beyond Upswing she has provided circus and aerial direction to a range companies including The RSC, The National Theatre of Scotland, New Vic Theatre, The Royal Exchange and Kenny Wax Productions as part of the creative team for the Olivier Award winning ‘The Worst Witch’. Vicki is Chair of The Baring Foundation Arts Committee and a trustee of Dance Umbrella.