Jonathan Goh made history as Singapore’s first graduate with an honours degree in Circus Arts, earning the qualification from London’s National Centre for Circus Arts in July 2025. Now 30, Goh combines his academic training with practical experience, performing a range of circus skills as a busker in Singapore and abroad.

Goh’s journey into circus arts began at age 11, inspired by a fire-spinning performance. Although he initially pursued a performing career directly, the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 prompted him to enroll in formal education to refine his craft. The three-year course, which carries an annual fee of approximately £18,000 (S$30,500) for overseas students, involved rigorous training with classes five days a week, often lasting seven hours per day. This intensive schedule limited his ability to perform full time during his studies.

Despite these demands, Goh earned income busking at venues such as London’s Covent Garden, where he received between £200 and £400 weekly, and performed at events including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe during term breaks. He would return to Singapore during winter holidays to perform, balancing financial needs with his educational commitments.

The degree program enhanced Goh’s technical skills across multiple disciplines, including trapeze, aerial acts, Chinese pole, teeter board, and juggling. More importantly, it deepened his understanding of body mechanics and the creative process, shifting his approach from trial and error to storytelling through performance. Goh said the education taught him how to train both mind and body to master new tricks more efficiently.

Xyn Foo, an independent circus producer and director familiar with Singapore’s circus scene, confirmed Goh’s status as the nation’s first degree holder in circus arts, highlighting the significance of his achievement given Singapore’s limited tradition of valuing the arts as a professional path. Foo noted that Goh’s commitment of time and resources is an important step for the local community. She also emphasized Goh’s role as a community leader, pointing out his active involvement in nurturing emerging artists through workshops and creative sessions.

Goh, who serves as co-chairman of Buskers’ Association Singapore, acknowledged frequent questions about the financial viability of his career. He said that while income can fluctuate widely—ranging from S$6,000 to S$12,000 a month—his earnings have challenged common perceptions about circus arts as a sustainable livelihood.

By combining formal training abroad with ongoing performances at home and overseas, Goh is positioning himself as a bridge between Singapore’s developing circus arts community and the global professional arena. His achievement marks a milestone for the local arts landscape and underscores a growing recognition of circus arts as a serious discipline in the country.