Ethiopian-born performers from Silvers Circus took Fruit Flies through their paces, teaching them the arts of Risley - which is when someone is lying on their back supporting one or more fliers with their hands or feet.

Ringmaster Simon Tait said it was a great opportunity for Silvers' Risley performers to pass on their skills and knowledge to the next generation through the masterclass.

He said it also gave students insight into the life of a full-time performer.

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"It's hands on experience from professionals who have been doing it their whole lives you basically can't beat that experience, they give students a real perspective of what they do," he said.

"I think the Flying Fruit Fly Circus is a very worthwhile institution, it's been going for many years and produced quite a few performers."

Silvers Circus will be at the Wodonga Showgrounds until Sunday.

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