Here’s the latest Arts in the City column from HELEN MUSA.

Warehouse Circus Inc has set up a new home for circus, acting, physical theatre and technical safety training with the launch of Hand to Hand Academy.

CEO Aleshia Johnson says the academy gives local performers access to nationally recognised qualifications without needing to move interstate or overseas. Courses include acting for screen, musical theatre, backstage technical skills, working safely at heights, and what is described as Canberra’s first nationally accredited circus training.

The 42nd Artshow@Radford, hosted by the Radford College Parents & Friends Association, returns with works by established and emerging artists. Student artworks inspired by the theme “Sense of Belonging” will also feature in the exhibition. Radford College, May 29-31.

On the cusp of its 20th anniversary, the noted French and Norwegian ensemble Dans les Arbres is heading to Canberra. Featuring French clarinettist Xavier Charles alongside Norwegian musicians Ivar Grydeland, Christian Wallumrød, and Ingar Zach, the quartet has earned an international reputation for minimalist, improvisation-based performances. Tuggeranong Arts Centre, June 5.

Tessa Morris-Suzuki will discuss her latest book, Nature, War and the Art of the Detmold Twins: Orientalist Dreams, Modernity’s Nightmares, at Asia Bookroom. The talk will explore the lives and art of Edward Julius Detmold and his twin, Charles Maurice Detmold, whose illustrations appeared in classics including The Jungle Book and The Arabian Nights.

Governor-General Sam Mostyn’s daughter, Lotte Beckett, will play the shy Annelle Dupuy-Desoto in the forthcoming production of Steel Magnolias. Canberra Theatre Centre, June 17.

The Elegy Project brings together music by Henry Purcell, Frédéric Chopin, Megan Washington, and Joni Mitchell in a performance featuring 15 musicians across a vocal sextet, jazz quartet, and solo piano. Directed by Kimberly Steele with Christopher Pound and Rachael Thoms, it is at Wesley Music Centre, June 10; All Saints Anglican Church, June 14; and Wesley Music Centre again, June 13.

The Austrian Harmonie Choir will present a winter concert with guest performers including the Canberra Harmony Chorus, while accompanist Linus Lee will also perform a piano recital. Harmonie German Club, June 14.