Rex was destined for a life of performing given that his parents, Thomas Hinz and Frances Kelliher, run Circability Trust, a Ponsonby-based local charity, which brings circus to the community.
The trust operates from the old kindergarten building under the flyover on Victoria Park. They run circus workshops with a focus on bringing the community together. They teach a range of skills like juggling, unicycle, tightrope, acrobalance and clown.
Frances, Thomas and Rex invite you to try ‘circus’ by either attending a weekly classes or there are youth and adult open sessions people can drop into. Or they can even bring a mobile workshop to you.
So what does Rex bring to the table? Apart from being able to yodel and hoola hoop, he brings an injection of love into the circus team, and adults and children alike adore him.
While Rex loves his chosen career, in his down time he likes to relax at either Grey Lynn Park or Meola Reef while cruising for playmates, as he is very social.
The five words Rex’s parents use to describe him are cute, social, handsome, playful and athletic. In a movie of his life, Jack Nicholson would play him. His theme song is ‘Happy’.
Circability is a charity, helping the community, including disabled adults, learn and grow through circus. Aside from attending one of their classes, you can help via donation: of time, money or other resources. They are kind, dog-loving, talented people so please Ponsonby people, support them!
The Circability showcase on Friday 13 November at the Victory Convention Centre on Beaumont Street is a Music Circus Mash-Up featuring an all ages and abilities cast celebrating inclusion and diversity. They have live music from Strangers in a Strange Band, The Mutes from Mars and special guests beside stilt walkers, unicyclists, jugglers, clowns and acrobats. Check out their website www.communitycircus.co.nz for details.
If you know a local animal lover, email us at angela@petsandpats.com, the person featured in this column will receive a fabulous photoshoot and pet services worth $500. Furry and fabulous, brought to you by Angela Beer, owner of petsandpats.com and Fiona Tomlinson photographer www.fionatomlinson.co.nz