L to R: Jennifer Mitchell, CAC Executive Vice President and COO; Marlo Turner, Foundation Senior Vice President, Donor Engagement; Zoltan Karpathy, CAC Vice President of Philanthropy; & Murray Devine, Foundation Manager, Communications and Marketing

Jovially juggling its resources and forward-flipping into an exciting renovation, The Circus Arts Conservatory progresses steadfast in a project to expand programming in the community and revamp its one-of-a-kind Sailor Circus Arena. The Sailor Circus Arena has become an iconic structure in Southwest Florida, comprised of “a span of steel beams over which a fire-resistant, vinyl-coated polyester fabric is placed in tension to create a permanent Big Top.”  To ensure the future of circus arts for generations to come, The Sailor Circus Arena Renovation Campaign has raised $3.7 million so far, with $300,000 more to swing its $4 million goal needed to complete necessary repairs and updates to its immense rehearsal and performance spaces.

“The updated Sailor Circus Arena will provide new and exciting health and fitness activities for seniors, children and teens, and those who face cognitive and developmental challenges. Additionally, the Arena will be available year-round to schools, businesses and organizations, and host national and international groups and events.”

With a deep love and appreciation for performance arts and educational activities, the CFSC continues to be a long-standing major partner of the CAC and keep cirque dreams alive in this “circus town” of ours. Community Foundation of Sarasota County executives got a sneak peak at the renovations in progress last week. The visit included discussions of ongoing support for performances, outreach programs, training workshops, Circus Summer Camps and Circus Arts Classes.

In order to broaden its reach to serve more children and adults, the CAC plans to enrich the lives of underserved students with the expansion of Circus Arts Classes—aiming to help working parents afford a safe after-school program, along with the chance to participate in its athletic, educational summer camps. There, campers learn a variety of carnival-esque talents, including triple and single trapeze, globes, silks, Rolla Bolla, hula hoop, low wire, clowning, tightrope, juggling and much more. Moreover, anyone and everyone is welcomed to try their hand in Trampoline, Flying Trapeze and Aerial Silks—no matter your age or skill level. Sure to dazzle your heart and inspire your above ground senses, this unique outlet of fun and exercise has evolved to become the latest and most exciting form of physical, athletic and mental training, taught by professional coaches. Classes include tailored lessons for young students, as well as adult workshops to invigorate your fitness routine and finally learn to fly. 

“The CAC is the nation’s only nonprofit organization combining world class professional cirque performances, youth training and community outreach programming using circus arts as the medium.”

L to R: Jennifer Mitchell, CAC Executive Vice President and COO; Marlo Turner, Foundation Senior Vice President, Donor Engagement; Zoltan Karpathy, CAC Vice President of Philanthropy; & Murray Devine, Foundation Manager, Communications and Marketing

Photos provided by The Circus Arts Conservatory. Click here for more info on classes!