Rebel Arts Movement

Rebel Arts Movement is a circus arts, tumbling, acrobatics, and dance education studio and performance collective based in Philadelphia. Founded in 2020 by Alyssa Bigbee, it began with accessible tumbling and movement classes for local youth in North Philadelphia. Its work combines movement education with creative expression, serving young people and adults through classes, school partnerships, workshops, and live performance.

The studio expanded into aerial circus arts in 2022 after Bigbee completed professional training in aerial bungee, aerial silks, and lyra. Its curriculum now spans these aerial disciplines alongside tumbling, acrobatics, AcroDance, and modern and contemporary dance. Dance/movement therapy and trauma-informed creative arts also inform its educational approach.

Classes and community learning

Programming includes youth and adult instruction, summer intensives, afterschool circus education, and in-school Out-of-School Time tumbling clubs. Community open studio hours provide another way to participate in movement and creative practice. The studio also offers specialized clinics and traveling workshops in tumbling, aerial technique, and dance therapy, as well as space rental for rehearsals, creative development, and private movement sessions.

Its educational work extends beyond scheduled studio classes through partnerships with schools and other community institutions. These programs bring tumbling and movement activities into host settings, connecting its circus and dance curriculum with youth education.

Original performance

Established in 2023, its in-house performance company, The Rebellion Circus, brings together circus stunts, acrobatics, and contemporary dance in original theatrical productions. The collective uses these forms to explore social issues, racial justice, mental health, and community liberation. Its productions and workshops have appeared within Philadelphia's performing arts and festival community, including the Philadelphia Fringe Festival and Cannonball Festival.

Across instruction and performance, Rebel Arts Movement connects physical movement with storytelling and opportunities for community participation. Its activities encompass both ongoing learning and the development and presentation of original circus-dance work.