In the busy student world of textbooks and regular class attendance, Michael Marcheschi, a senior molecular and cellular biology major at Illinois State University has found an unexpected and exhilarating passion—tightrope walking with the Gamma Phi Circus.
“When I found out about Gamma Phi Circus from Redbird Life during the COVID-19 period, it was like finding a goldmine,” said Marcheschi reflecting on the pivotal moment that set his circus journey in motion. “That was a few years ago, and now, as a tightrope walker, I still hold on to the thrill of the circus.”
His interest in circus arts was sparked by childhood memories of climbing playgrounds and balancing on a slackline. “I have always liked to climb on the playground. I have a slackline that I like to walk and balance on,” said Marcheschi.
The allure of tightrope walking, he notes, lies in the exhilarating experience of being high above the ground.
“During practice, we start at one that’s three feet tall. At the arena, we are 30 feet in the air. It feels like you are flying. It’s peaceful,” he said.
Reflecting on his first encounter with the circus, Marcheschi notes that he was skeptical because he didn’t know if they were accepting people during COVID-19. However, that uncertainty turned into a love for the art during an open house in his sophomore year. “I fell in love with it and have been doing it for the third year now. I’m the co-act captain of the wire act and have even performed on unicycles,” he said.
Speaking about the supportive community within the Gamma Phi Circus, Marcheschi shares, “The people are welcoming. I have met the best people in my life through this organization. It’s like a family that cheers for one another.”
Beyond that, he notes, the members of the institution have the collective drive to encourage each other to be better and to try new things.
“Never did I think that I would be able to juggle or ride a unicycle. But I was advised to try it, worked at it and now I can do both,” he said.
This usually happens behind closed doors. Their efforts culminate during their shows where they get to perform in front of live spectators and see how months of intensive training pays off.
“College is a place to discover yourself. Sometimes you just have to throw yourself in the deep end and go for it if you are interested in something.”
—Michael Marcheschi
Describing the most exciting moments in the circus, Marcheschi reveals, “We spend the entire year working on the show. Seeing everything come to life and nailing it in front of an audience of thousands—it’s an all-time high.”
Marcheschi acknowledges that in one way or another one has to pay a price to experience that all-time high. For aerials and most other acts, one must be physically fit. This could mean going to the gym even on days when they are not practicing.
He also notes that auditioning for acts every year can be tough especially when one fails to get the role they auditioned for.
“I auditioned for aerials last year but didn’t get it. It was disappointing, but I can’t beat myself up for too long. At least I got the opportunity to learn the act and I get to keep up with fitness while learning new skills.”
Fitness for Marcheschi extends beyond the physical aspect. It also entails being academically fit.
His daily routine provides insight into the busy schedule of a circus performer and student. “I have learned to balance all my ‘acts.’ Monday and Thursday are my busiest days. I wake up at 8 a.m., have two back-to-back classes, an hour break in between, and another hour break before practice. We have a meeting at 6 p.m., and it ends at 9 p.m.”
Balancing schoolwork is crucial, he adds, noting that he uses Tuesdays to get as much schoolwork done as possible.
In the future, Marcheschi envisions himself continuing to perform in the circus as a hobby while pursuing a career in microbiology and cell biology research. “College is a place to discover yourself. Sometimes you just have to throw yourself in the deep end and go for it if you are interested in something,” he said.
Interested in becoming a member of the Gamma Phi Circus or attending their home shows? Learn more here.
