In 2017, UK circus sets out its stall as the Canvas showcase returns for a three-day programme of performances and presentations, complimented by a directory that lists over 60 projects, from ideas stage work to tour-ready productions. Meanwhile, launched in the final months of 2016 by Crying Out Loud and NoFit State Circus, the Spotlight UK Circus initiative kicks into gear with presentations of work at CIRCa Festival in France and Subcase in Sweden (and a visit to the OFF Festival, Avignon in 2018). Education opportunities are also developing as Circomedia opens a new MA in Directing for Circus, led by Bim Mason and Charlotte Mooney, and designed to fill what has been to-date a conspicuous gap in training.