Avery Byrd, a three-year Gamma Phi member, has roots in the Gamma Phi Circus (GPC) that go way back to when she was a preteen.
Byrd’s initiation into the circus began during summer visits to her grandmother who resides in Bloomington. Together with her brother, Gavin Byrd, they participated in the Gamma Phi Circus summer camps between 2010-15.
“The summer camps were very helpful in making us develop essential skills,” she remarked.
This created a curiosity to continue exploring the circus and fostered an interest in enrolling in Illinois State University.
“Not only did attending ISU mean being close to family, but it also meant we could join the Gamma Phi Circus,” she said.
In 2021, Byrd joined Illinois State and began her journey in the circus shortly after.
Teeterboard, aerial straps, and dance are some of the acts that she has performed in her tenure as a member of the Gamma Phi.
“Being a gymnast played a part in my initial participation in the circus. It made me gravitate toward the acrobatic acts,” Byrd explained. “I have since participated in acts such as the dance act. However, teeterboard and aerial acts remain some of my favorite acts to date.”
Speaking on the membership experience of the GPC, Byrd notes that it is an experience unlike any other. As one of 130 troupe members, she appreciates the support from the board and the members.
Another remarkable aspect of the Gamma Phi that she values is the commitment to excellence.
“We put so much time and effort into practice that when it comes to performing, our bodies just know what to do,” she said.
Byrd’s most memorable experience was when she performed the acro-jump and teeterboard acts with her brother during the last Saturday night show of last year’s show week.
“It was our last performance together as Gamma Phi Circus members. Usually, it’s a bittersweet moment for all seniors, but that made it even more special,” she remarked.
Byrd shares that she has had her share of mental health challenges. Her sophomore year, she notes, was the toughest mentally.
“This journey has been a great learning curve for me,” she said. “I was in a very bad place mentally, but I have learned not to concentrate too much on one side. Simple things like planning out my week ahead, creating time for other areas of interest and seeking professional help have helped me create a healthy life balance.”
She also reached out to family members and acknowledged that she needed help.
“I was very intentional this past semester,” she said. “I took steps to get better and now I am happier and excited to perform. This past semester has been the best academically and mentally.”
Byrd, who majors in creative technologies, graduates next May.
Reminiscing on the remarkable journey that the Gamma Phi Circus has accorded her, she said “Being a member of the Gamma Phi has challenged me to recognize that I am more capable than I think. Although I will no longer participate in the circus after graduation, the memories I have made over the last four years will stay with me for the rest of my life.”
Reach out to the Gamma Phi Circus for more information on participation.
