A breast cancer survivor who defied the odds to return to the stage is giving back to the community.
Aqua aerialist and yoga instructor Laura Miller will lead a free yoga class in Southampton as part of Circus Extreme’s stay in the city.
The class is open to all levels and will take place under the Circus Extreme Big Top on Sunday, April 19, at 11am.
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Laura Miller is set to lead a free yoga class in Southampton. (Image: Circus Extreme)
Ms Miller, who was diagnosed with stage three invasive breast cancer, said: “Taking care of ourselves — physically and mentally — is so important.
“Yoga allows us to slow down, reconnect, and recharge.
“That’s something I want to share with as many people as possible.”
After undergoing treatment at Portsmouth’s Queen Alexandra Hospital, including three surgeries, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and a year of targeted therapy, Ms Miller spent nearly three years away from performing.
She said: “All I could envision was getting back and holding onto my aerial ring.
“I could see myself doing it in my mind and that was my motivation.”
Now back on stage with Circus Extreme, she performs her signature ‘Aquatic Aerial Ring’ act, which combines aerial artistry with water and fire elements in a dramatic, high-flying routine.
Anthony Anderson, director of Circus Extreme, said: “When Laura Miller flies almost weightlessly through the air and then dives into a fiery tank of water, the atmosphere inside the auditorium is electric.”
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Ms Miller is a qualified yoga teacher. (Image: Circus Extreme)
Beyond her circus career, Ms Miller is a qualified yoga teacher specialising in Vinyasa and Yin Yoga.
She began practising yoga to support her aerial training but quickly found its mental health benefits just as valuable.
Ms Miller is also involved in the Young Breast Cancer Network, helping support other young women with similar diagnoses.
Her return to performance has even taken her to the International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo, often described as the Oscars of the circus world.
She currently stars in Circus Extreme’s latest production, ROCK IT OUT!, which combines live rock music with world-class circus stunts.
Circus Extreme runs at Mayflower Park from April 17 to 26.