Circus artistry meets summer fun in this unique summer camp! Join us for the most unique summer camp in our area where youth campers learn circus arts disciplines, including triple and single trapeze, globes, silks, hula hoop, low wire, clowning, flying trapeze, juggling, and more! Campers will: Increase coordination through acrobatics; test their balance on the low wire; inspire courage on the flying trapeze or learn to juggle all while having the time of their lives!
Monday – Friday 9 am – 3 pm, with a performance showcase on the last Friday of each session. Before and after care is available for summer camps. Aftercare is available for Spring Break Camps.
After enrolling a child and paying the tuition, a purchase receipt will be emailed to you. As part of the enrollment/purchase process, you will receive a link to the Google registration form. It’s mandatory to complete and submit this form at the time of enrollment/purchase. Please note that if the forms are not received at the time of purchase or enrollment, a late fee of $25 per form will be charged.
Summer Camp 2024: Registration is open via the Summer Camp page.
Spring Break Camp 2024: March 11-15 2024. Registration is closed.
Circus Arts Conservatory has collaborated with Sarasota High School to teach students important life skills that are unique to Circus Arts. Together we have created a one-of-a-kind Magnet Program that challenges student’s strength, balance, and flexibility – both physically and mentally! The Circus Magnet Program provides an innovative set of state standards that combines local circus history, physics, and performing arts. The Magnet Program is designed to help students develop advanced athletic abilities and creative thinking skills.
Unlike the traditional Sailor Circus Academy, the Circus Magnet Program takes place during the school day, and earns students credit toward a high school diploma. Students that participate in our Magnet Program are not required to perform in the Sailor Academy. The district allows school reassignment with program enrollment (meaning if you are not districted for SHS, you can school-choice). This 4-year physical education program conditions muscle memory and conceptualizes kinesiology. The Circus Magnet Program is compatible with Sarasota High’s AICE and MAST accelerated academic programs. Students in this program learn about the rich history of circus arts in Sarasota, which has been a hub of circus activity for over a century.
for students districted to Sarasota High School only.
For more detailed infomation, CLICK HERE.
To apply, you must complete the following tasks:
Audition Video and Letter or Recommendation sent to:
dakota@circusarts.org (preferred) or dakota.carrera@
Known worldwide as “The Greatest ‘Little’ Show on Earth,” the Sailor Circus is America’s oldest youth circus, having been seen by more than 1 million spectators! The Academy provides a rigorous after-school circus training program where students learn to develop life management skills, gain self-discipline, bolster confidence and a commitment to achievement, all in a safe and nurturing circus atmosphere.
Gold Troupe (Beginner / Intermediate level). Ages 6-18
During the enrollment period, students of appropriate age may join as long as space is available.
Two sessions are offered, Fall & Spring.
Evaluations for the Fall session occur in the Summer and for the Spring session in January.
Red Troupe (Intermediate / Advanced level ) Ages 12-18+
Invitation Only.
Enrollment requires commitment for the entire school year, including the December holidays.
Evaluations for Red Troupe take place in the Late Spring / Summer only.
Pre-registration is required
Required: All new and lapsed enrollment students are required to undergo evaluations. Spring 2024 returning students are not required to attend an evaluation unless they want to be evaluated for the Red Troupe.
There there will be no make-up days. Our process involves a panel of coaches and multiple stations to ensure a thorough evaluation. Therefore, we cannot accommodate individual evaluations or arrange make-up days for any reason.
Have questions or need help filling out your form? Email or call Tonia@circusarts.org 941-355-9335 ex 326
*JANUARY EVALUATIONS: If you’re registering for an evaluation in January, you must FIRST register for the Gold Troupe. Spots are limited. Placement in the desired act(s) is determined by enrollment date and completion of registration forms, provided students meet prerequisites and space is available. Please note that evaluations in January are solely to assess act placements in the Gold Troupe and not for troupe placement.
Visit the Gold Troupe page to register and pay. You will receive an automated purchase receipt containing a Gold Troupe registration form LINK where you can sign up for an evaluation in the registration form.
JOIN US for the most unique Circus Spring Break Camp in our area where youth campers learn circus arts disciplines. Campers will: Increase coordination through acrobatics; test their balance on the low wire; inspire courage on the flying trapeze or learn to juggle all while having the time of their lives!
Please read through the information on this page before registering.
Registration is now closed.
Ages *6-15 Years Old
Monday-Friday 9:00am-3:00pm
Session sells out quickly so reserve your child’s spot in Circus Spring Break Camp Now!
Circus Campers learn a variety of circus arts including: triple and single trapeze, globes, silks, Rolla Bolla, hula hoop, low wire, clowning, flying trapeze, juggling, and much more! Campers enjoy a truly unique experience.
A Typical Day begins with a warm up and group stretch, 1-2 warm up circus activities (like circus relay, low wire, unicycle, trampoline, hula hooping, or juggling) snack, showcase act rehearsal, lunch, theater games, arts and circus crafts, showcase act rehearsal, snack, check-out and group games, dismissal.
Dress Code: Circus girls: leotards or one piece bathing suits with leggings or shorts to go over leotards; hair ties (hair must be up if long) and shoes. Circus boys: tee shirts, gym shorts, briefs (no boxer shorts), sliders or leggings for aerialist and shoes.
Please Note: Friday Showcase, girls are required to wear skin tone tights (Walmart, target, amazon). Bring the tights the Friday morning at drop off. If you forget the tights, DO NOT BRING THEM AFTER CAMP HAS STARTED. Our camp model is for campers to practice and progress in their act group daily, drop in days are not offered in our camps for this reason.
Showcase: LIVE! Friday at 3:30 (doors open at 3:15). The Friday showcase is a private event exclusively for camper families and is not open to the public.
*Age requirement: Spring Break Camp is for those 6 year-olds that are CURRENTLY enrolled in or have COMPLETED kindergarten.
Spring Break Camp Information Guide
Registration Form (see below regarding late fees)
The registration form can be found in the purchase receipt that was sent to your email address that is in your Mind Body account. A purchase receipt will be emailed to you after enrolling a child and paying the tuition.
Please note that we do not accept registration forms that have been printed and filled out by hand. All registration forms must be completed digitally..
Registration Confirmation: After completing the form, you will receive an email containing a copy of your responses. This serves as your confirmation that the CAC has received your form. If you have received a confirmation email from Google Forms, kindly refrain from emailing the registrar inquiring whether the form has been received. Due to the large number of campers and high interest in camp, your email might not receive a response.
Late Fees: You must complete and submit the Google Registration form immediately upon sign-up. If forms are not submitted at the time of purchase/enrollment, a $25 late fee per form will be applied and Group requests will not be considered.
*Please note that only campers who are officially enrolled and registered for a specific session are allowed to attend that camp session. It is not allowed to switch or trade campers, nor attend a session a camper is not enrolled in. The camp staff requires all necessary documents and adequate time to prepare for the camp session before its commencement. Therefore, we cannot accept walk-ins, one-day drop-ins, or campers coming in place of another. Children who do not meet these requirements will not be able to attend camp.
Before Care – Is not offered for Spring Break Camp
Aftercare services are exclusively provided to campers enrolled in the program and unavailable to anyone not registered in the session.
AFTERCARE
Aftercare hours are 3:15 – 5:30PM
Snack included 35 minutes of circus programming, movie time-schedule available upon request.
Single-day rates for aftercare are $35 per day. Subject to availability.
Campers not picked up by 5:30PM will incur a $5 dollar charge, per camper, for every one (1) minute past 5:30.
While we understand that things can happen that are out of our control, it’s imperative that you have a reliable backup during those times, as late pick-ups will not be tolerated.
To ensure the safety of all campers and staff, the CAC has implemented a policy that prohibits parents, guardians, and visitors from entering the arena during camp hours. Additionally, the doors and gates of the campus and arena will be securely locked from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM every day. This measure is necessary to ensure the safety and protection of all individuals attending camp and will be enforced without exception.
Once the camp begins, all parents or guardians are required to leave the campus.
To contact the camp staff, use Remind. Review the Remind tab. Or call 941-355-9335 ex 300.
Group Requests
We understand that you may prefer to be placed in a particular group, but we cannot guarantee that we can fulfill every request. Our team will do their best to accommodate your preferences, but please remember that it may not always be feasible. We strive to group campers with their friends, but our process may not always permit it. If your child is not assigned to their friend’s group, we apologize, but we cannot honor requests to switch groups due to the high number of campers we have each week; it would be impossible to make changes for everyone.
Good to know: Throughout the day, all campers convene in the arena, a spacious open area. This means that your camper will still be near their friends even if your requests cannot be fulfilled.
Campers are divided into two (2) groups: a home group and an act group. They will spend time in both groups during the day.
Home Group: Our camp organizes campers into home groups according to their age. Each group is led by one counselor and two to three junior counselors. We assign campers to their home group (by age) before camp begins, and they cannot be rearranged for any reason.
Showcase Act Group: Campers will be placed in an act group that matches their interests and abilities. The groups will include individuals of all ages and will be led by a counselor. This counselor may or may not be the same counselor as the camper’s home group counselor. The act group assignments will be given to campers at the end of the first day.
Click the link below to learn how to register for camp –
Location/Parking: 2075 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota, FL 34239. The arena is located on the northside of Bahia Vista St. (Building with the blue and white metal roof). Enter the Sarasota High School parking lot adjacent to the east side of the building. Click HERE for Drop Off & Pick Up MAP
Drop Off/Pick Up: Parents / guardians, park and walk your child through the gate with our “Circus Entrance” banner on the fence. Students should never be dropped off/ picked up in the staff parking lot/ticket sales lot by our main office. Wait outside the doors. Check in begins at 8;55am when staff opens the doors. Walk your child inside for check in. Once camp begins parents/guardians will be required to leave the campus, we do not allow spectators or visitors during camp hours.
For the safety and security f campers and staff the arena doors will remain locked from 9:30 – 2:30.
For pick up, wait outside the same doors and a staff member will open the doors when check out begins.
Late drop off / Early Pick Up – Use Remind to alert staff and they will bring your child to the main doors.
Hours: Regular camp hours are 9am-3pm. (Drop off begins at 8:55am) After care hours are 3:10pm-5:30pm
LUNCH & SNACKS
CAMP ATTIRE
Recommended Items:
SHOWCASE
PERSONAL ITEMS
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Showcase: The Friday showcase is a private event exclusively for camper families and is not open to the public.
Girls: Day of the showcase, girls are required to have tights matching their skin tone, No patterns. Can be purchased at Walmart, Target, Amazon, etc. Tights should be brought to camp on Friday morning at drop-off. Dress rehearsal will be in the morning. If the camper does not have their tights the parents CAN NOT drop them off later in the day.
Boys: Camp staff will notify you if you need to bring anything on Friday. Bring any necessary items on Friday at drop off.
Costumes: All costumes and costume pieces are the property of The CAC and may not be taken off campus. Includes all hair pieces, hats, and accessories.
Doors open at 3:15, performance starts at 3:30, and lasts 45-60 Minutes.
REFUNDS:
Until 14 days before Spring Break Camp starts, refunds can be requested with a $75 admin fee deduction. There will be no refunds if the camp session is purchased within 14 days of the start of camp.
There are no refunds for campers dismissed from the program due to disciplinary reasons, for campers found with evidence of lice (see our lice/nit policy), for campers who choose to withdraw early from a program already in session or for campers who choose to withdraw before the start of their scheduled session.
Camper can not attend due to COVID: camper or family member has COVID no refunds will be given. If space is available in a Summer camp session the camper may be moved to a session with open spots.
Cancellation requests must be emailed to Tonia Bichler at Tonia@circusarts.org
No refunds will be given for:
MEDICAL REFUNDS : If a camper leaves due to an injury incurred at camp, a prorated portion of the tuition may be refunded. If a camper is injured prior to attending a scheduled session or is injured during the session outside of camp and it prohibits them from participating, we will consider a refund upon review of the doctor’s note. A doctor’s note must be received prior to the start of the camp session in order to be considered for a refund. Any tuition refunded will incur a $50 admin fee. Camp reserves the right to make exceptions to this rule without setting precedent.
Camper can not attend due to COVID(camper or family member) or any other illness, no refunds will be given. If space is available in another session the camper may be moved to a session with open spots. If all remaining session are full or camper can not attend another session for any reason, no refunds will be given.
Scholarships may be available to local campers whose families meet the financial need criteria.
To apply for a need-based scholarship, please click here.
Applications will accepted till February 2 or until allotted scholarship funds are disbursed.
CAMP ENROLLMENT
Is secure once payment in full is collected, and all forms are completed and returned to the Circus Arts Conservatory
REGISTRATION FEE
No Registration Fees: Failure to complete the registration form at the time of purchase will result in a $25 late fee per form.
CAMP HOURS
Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Campers should arrive at 8:55 am and must be picked up by 3:10 pm
BEFORE CARE
Not offered for Spring Break camp.
AFTERCARE
Aftercare is only available to campers enrolled in the session.
Aftercare hours are 3:15 – 5:30PM Monday – Thursday
You can enroll for the entire week or opt for single-day rates. However, please note that single-days are subject to availability.
While we understand that things can happen that are out of our control, it’s imperative that you have a reliable backup during those times, as late pick-ups will not be tolerated.
ENROLLMENT
Campers are enrolled on a first-come, first served basis as per the date of receipt of the registration application in Mindbody and the Google Registration Form. Confirmation of enrollment and receipt will be sent via email through MindBody.
WAITING LIST
You may enroll on the waitlist through MindBody when a camp session fills. Applicants will be notified if space becomes available by email/phone. Tuition fees are not processed until applicants are placed in a session. If a spot becomes available, you will be notified via email and have 24 hours to reply. After 24 hours, the spot will be given to the next camper on the waitlist.
REFUNDS
Refunds may be requested up to 10 days before the start of the camp session, and a $75 admin fee will be deducted. After ten days, there will not be any refunds. Cancellation requests must be emailed to Tonia Bichler at Tonia@circusarts.org.
There are no refunds for campers dismissed from the program due to disciplinary reasons, or for campers found with evidence of lice (see our lice/nit policy), or for campers who choose to withdraw early from a program already in session. Refunds will not be given or days prorated due to inclement weather or any other reason the CAC would need to close the campus.
Refunds will not be given due to camper groups. If a camp group request can not be accommodated, no refund will be given if the camper chooses to withdraw from the session.
MEDICAL REFUNDS
If a camper leaves due to an injury incurred at camp, a prorated portion of the tuition may be refunded. If a camper is injured before attending a scheduled session and it prohibits them from participating, we will consider a refund upon reviewing the doctor’s note. A doctor’s note must be received prior to the start of the camp session in order to be considered for a refund. Any tuition refunded will incur a $50 admin fee. Camp reserves the right to make exceptions to this rule without setting a precedent.
COVID 19: campers unable to attend to due to Covid 19 will not receive a refund.
RELEASE
Parents/Guardians are required to sign a general release and waiver of liability and indemnity agreement before the camper is placed in a session. In addition to a release, proof of insurance is required for all campers.
CAMP POLICIES
PARKING/ DROP OFF /PICK UP
Parking is in the Sarasota High School Parking lot ONLY. Park and walk your child to the main doors by the Circus Entrance Banner located in the Sarasota High School Parking lot. Pick-up will be at the same doors students are dropped off.
VISITORS
Circus camp is a closed space, and we do not allow parents or guests to spectate during camp. Parents, guardians, and visitors are not allowed to stay during camp sessions.
SNACKS
LUNCH
ATTIRE
PERSONAL ITEMS
The CAC does not have secure lockers for personal storage. The CAC is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged items brought to camp. Items to leave at home:
HEALTH AND SAFETY
CODE OF CONDUCT
SHOWCASE DETAILS
Enrollment
Waiting List
Refunds
Medical Refund Policy
Release
See Website Home Page
For Spring Break Camp, campers must meet BOTH prerequisites: be enrolled in or have completed kindergarten and be at least 6 years old.
Please note that only campers who are officially enrolled and registered for a specific session can attend that camp session.
It is not allowed to switch or trade campers, nor attend a session a camper is not enrolled in. The camp staff requires all necessary documents and adequate time to prepare for the camp session before its commencement. Therefore, we cannot accept walk-ins, one-day drop-ins, or campers coming instead of another. Children who do not meet these requirements cannot attend camp.
There are two steps to complete enrollment:
1. Enroll and pay through Mind Body (click the “Register Here” button above).
2. Fill out the google registration form by following the link provided in your purchase receipt email.
Your enrollment will be considered complete once you have completed these two steps. The administration will send an email to all the registered campers on the Friday prior to the start of the session..
For information and questions about Spring Break Camp, please refer to the “Spring Break Camp Information Guide” section above.
Camp registration is NOT COMPLETE
until the Google registration form (link sent in your receipt email) is filled out for all children. Paying does not guarantee a spot.
See the Spring Break Camp Information Guide section above.
LOCATION: Sailor Circus Arena
2075 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota, FL 34239
• From Interstate 75- Take exit 210 heading West on Fruitville Rd/Historic Florida 780 W. Turn left (South) onto North Tuttle Avenue. Turn right (West) onto Bahia Vista Street. Our arena is located on the right with Parking available in the Sarasota High School parking lot adjacent to the east side of the building.
• From US 41/ North Tamiami Trail.- Turn onto Bahia Vista Street. Our arena is located on the left with Parking available in the Sarasota High School parking lot adjacent to the east side of the building.
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Registration for the Spring 2024 Session is CLOSED. Check back in late Spring for Fall 2024 information.
Gold Troupe is a preparatory Circus Arts Training program for students ages 6 – 18. Gold Troupe is offered in the Fall and Spring seasons and provides a foundation for circus students to advance and prepare for the Sailor Circus Academy Red Troupe Performance Program.
The troupe aims to enhance the natural abilities of students, boost their strength and confidence, and prioritize training safety, performance technique, and performance etiquette. These skills are crucial in developing a well-rounded set of circus skills and becoming a refined athletic circus arts performer.
Students will get the rare opportunity to experience quality instruction by Elite Professional Circus Arts Coaches. Each Fall and Spring session trains for an average of nine (9) weeks. As part of the Gold Troupe, students will participate in a costumed, ticketed showcase after each session. Live performances will be held at CAC’s air-conditioned arena, providing an opportunity for students’ families and friends to attend. Before the showcase, students will have a full week of rehearsals that will enable the student to be comfortable performing in front of a live audience. During the showcase, students will experience the excitement of performing under bright lights, with colorful costumes, while learning about staging, performer etiquette, and camaraderie.
At the Circus Arts Conservatory, we welcome students of all levels to register and believe that there’s something for everyone in the Circus Arts. Our Academy Gold Troupe’s focus is to give our students the opportunity to experience and learn the many facets of Circus Arts, including Aerial Skills, Rebound and balance Skills, Acrobatic Arts, Clowning, Specialty Acts, and Performance Techniques. These are ALL essential to being a well-rounded performer. If you are interested in quality, progressive Circus Arts training, The Sailor Circus Academy Gold Troupe is your golden opportunity!
NEW ACTS ADDED FOR GOLD TROUPE THIS SESSION!
Evaluations: NO LONGER OFFERED FOR SRING 2024 SESSION. Registration is CLOSED.
Attendance at an evaluation is mandatory for new and returning students with lapsed enrollment. Students enrolled in Fall 2023 are not required to attend the evaluation unless they want to be evaluated for the new Cradle Act.
*JANUARY EVALUATIONS: If you’re registering for an evaluation in January, you must FIRST register for the Gold Troupe. Spots are limited. Placement in the desired act(s) is determined by enrollment date and completion of registration forms, provided students meet prerequisites and space is available. Please note that evaluations in January are solely to assess act placements in the Gold Troupe and not for troupe placement.
Register and pay by clicking the Register Now button below. You will receive an automated purchase receipt with a link to the Gold Troupe registration form. You can sign up for an evaluation on the form.
Dates:
Mandatory orientation: All registered students will receive a recorded orientation via email.
Gold Troupe Showcase: Saturday, April 6, with two performances.
Spring Session: Comprehensive Training Fee – One (1) act $ (per student)
Includes a $ training fee & a $100 performance and costume fee. Students may add on ONE (1) additional act for $. Payment options are available. Does not include required training apparel or performance needs. To choose a payment plan, you can select “contracts” located at the top of the payment page, and choose your preferred option.
Registration: To complete your registration, follow these two steps: 1) Click on the “Register Here” button below to enroll your child(ren) and pay. 2) Fill out the Registration Form in your purchase receipt or course enrollment confirmation email. Please note that the registration form must be completed on the same day as the purchase/enrollment to avoid a late fee. Submitting all necessary forms before the registration deadline is crucial to securing your spot. Students who have registration forms completed on time will have the first choice of their act placements as long as there is availability and they meet the criteria.
Scholarships:
Applications are due by December 15 at 8:00 PM
See below for the Need-Based Scholarship application and information.
Required Training Apparel and Performance Needs:
Not included in tuition. Girls: biketard and leggings – any color. Boys: athletic clothing – any color. Leggings for aerial acts. Any other needs will be presented at the orientation.
Volunteering: Families in the Gold Troupe are now required to volunteer. Click the link below for more information on volunteering.
Parent Open House: NEW! During the session, a parent open house will be held where parents can observe the training. The date for this event has not yet been determined, but we will notify registered families.
Spectators: For the safety of students, staff, and coaches, only students currently in training are allowed in the Sailor Circus Arena and on CAC Campus. These areas are CLOSED to parents, guardians, and visitors. Parents are not permitted to escort their children into the Arena. *Please note our Arena / Campus policy is firm: No parents, guardians, or visitors allowed on campus or in the arena for any reason, no exceptions. Registered families can reach our staff using the Remind app. There will be an open house for parents during the session.
AGE REQUIREMENT: To enroll, students must be six (6) years old by September 1st of the current school year and have already completed kindergarten.
Click HERE for printable information, training schedule, fees, and more.
Training Schedule: Students will receive their personalized schedule via email before the start of the session.
Acts – Students can select up to three acts of interest (in the registration form). Nevertheless, it is essential to note that they may not be placed in those specific acts if the class is already full or if they do not meet the training / physical criteria. Make your act selections in the registration form. Please do not email your preferences to staff, as they won’t be recorded or considered.
Students who are 6 and 7 years old can only participate in acts with an asterisk (*) symbol next to them.
Cradle is a new act for the gold troupe, and all students who wish to be considered must attend an evaluation.
Click HERE for the training schedule.
Foundation & Fundamentals
Sailor Circus Academy Gold Troup students embark on their circus journey by beginning their training focusing on obtaining a solid circus arts foundation. By learning the circus fundamentals, exploring and having fun in the four main circus categories – Balance, Acrobatics, Aerials and Specialties – they will safely learn proper warm-up, flexibility & strength training, which will help them in their progression.
With the opportunity for students to explore and try a variety of acts within the four categories, students can enjoy the fun process of finding their act(s) and help their coaches guide them through that journey.
How to showcase what they’ve learned
At the end of their session, Sailor Circus Academy Gold Troup students will showcase what they’ve learned in two ticketed performances with state of the art lights and sound in front of an audience, giving them the amazing experience of being a young artist and the feeling of being a star that only circus can bring.
Sailor CircusAcademy NEED BASED Scholarship
Gold Troupe
The Circus Arts Conservatory actively seeks contributions throughout the year and awards scholarships based on financial need to deserving students. Thanks to our generous donors, we can offer families that meet financial criteria scholarships to help offset fees.
Applications are open through December 15 at 8:00 pm.
Click HERE for more information and the for the link to apply.
What is the Sailor Circus Academy?
This is an after-school, circus-arts training program in the Sailor Circus Arena in Sarasota. Students train in a variety of circus arts disciplines learning teamwork, building self confidence and learning life-lessons.
What is the purpose of the Sailor Circus Academy?
Sailor Circus has been serving area families since 1949, and is known as America’s Longest Running Youth Circus. Our experienced and caring staff and coaching team come from a variety of backgrounds such as retired or working professional circus artists, teachers, early childhood professionals, Sailor Circus alumni, gymnasts and more. One thing that they all have in common is a desire to pass on their love of the Circus Arts to the students engaged at The CAC!
We strive to provide a fun, safe and educational experience through the circus arts. We know that giving your child the opportunity to learn circus skills is one of the best decisions a parent can make for their child. Circus Arts teach important life skills such as determination, courage, strength development, flexibility, coordination, self-confidence, team work, discipline – and the list could go on and on….
What is the difference between the RED and GOLD Troupes?
The RED troupe is the original program started by the Sarasota High School back in 1949. The RED troupe performs in the Holiday and Spring shows to a live ticketed audience. The program beings in September and ends with the last Spring show performance. The commitment is for the duration of the school year with students training from two (2) to five (5) nights a week after school. How the long student trains each night depends on how many acts they are in. Auditions are required for the RED Troupe.
The GOLD Troupe was started in 2019 to help students develop circus skills and to possibly move up to RED Troupe, if they so desired. The Gold Troupe offers a Fall and Spring session, each session running for nine (9) weeks with a costumed showcase at the end of each session. Students are not required to join both Fall and Spring sessions.
What is the process for my child to participate in GOLD Troupe, do they have to audition for the program?
Children must be six years old by September 1st of the current school year and have completed kindergarten.
Evaluations are required for all new students and those with lapsed enrollment.
Are classes prorated?
No, there is one fee for the session regardless of how many days the student trains. There are no refunds for missed or canceled classes due to inclement weather or any other reason.
Is my child guaranteed to be in the act of their choice?
During evaluations students will be asked what act(s) they are interested in. Act placements are determined by evaluation results and coach and staff recommendations. Coaches and staff have the final say.
Can canceled or missed classes be made up?
There are no make up days for missed or canceled classes. Due to a full schedule of programs, training in the arena canceled or missed classes can not be rescheduled/made up. Occasionally classes are canceled due to events in the arena.
Will there be a scheduled performance? If so, how can I buy tickets?
Each session ends with a costumed, ticketed performance. Exact show dates and times are posted when registration information becomes available. Tickets can be purchased through our box office or on our website.
Is it dangerous?
No. The Circus Arts Conservatory is a professional organization with expertly trained artists, and our coaches are experienced in working with students at all levels. Though the training is rigorous, we evaluate each student’s individual potential and push them only to their limit and ability. Students start on the ground and slowly, one step at a time – and only when they are ready – do they advance. Students are never in an unsafe environment, as they are harnessed or over nets when above ground. We use top of the line gymnastics mats and safety equipment. This is a hands-on training program in a safe environment.
Who are the coaches?
We have professional coaches from around the world. Click here to see a line up of our coaches.
I would like to volunteer - where can I find more information?
Contact Aaron Watkins at volunteer@CircusArts.org
What happens if my child misses a class or a class is canceled? Can they make up the class?
No. If classes are canceled for ANY reason, coach is out, event scheduled in the arena, inclement weather (including hurricanes) or any other reason, there will not be any make up days/classes. Due to several programs running simultaneously throughout the year we can not hold make up classes. Tuition will not be refunded or prorated due to canceled classes.
Is it possible for a student to move from Gold Troupe to Red Troupe mid season (In January)?
No. It is our policy to invite new Red Troupe Students in summer to begin in August when the season starts.
Red Troupe runs from August – April, whereas Gold Troupe has two separate sessions, one in the Fall and one in Spring.
Enrollment
Refunds
Medical Refund Policy
Release
ENROLLMENT
Is secure once payment in full is collected and all forms are completed and returned to the Circus Arts Conservatory. Students are enrolled on a first come, first served basis as per the date of receipt of the registration application in Mindbody and the Google Registration Form. Confirmation of enrollment and receipt will be sent via email through MindBody.
REGISTRATION FEE
As part of the comprehensive training fee, there is a non-refundable registration fee of $45.
REFUNDS
Once the training period begins, it is not possible to obtain a refund for any training fees that have already been paid. Please note that we cannot offer refunds for cancelled classes, schedule changes, or if a student decides to withdraw early. Additionally, if a student is dismissed from the Sailor Circus Academy Gold Troupe due to disciplinary reasons or evidence of lice, no refunds will be provided. However, if a student sustains an injury during training that prevents them from completing the season, we may consider providing a pro-rated refund. Please be aware that recreational class credits cannot be transferred and are not applicable to Sailor Circus Academy courses, nor vice versa. The CAC reserves the right to make exceptions to this rule without setting a precedent.
Refunds may be requested up to one day after the Orientation. After this time, no refunds will be given. Refund requests must be made in writing to Tonia@circusarts.org. Please note that the $45 non-refundable registration fee.
If classes are canceled for ANY reason, there will not be any make-up days/classes. Due to several programs running simultaneously throughout the year, we can not hold make-up classes. Tuition will not be refunded or prorated due to canceled classes.
MEDICAL REFUNDS
If a student leaves due to an injury incurred at Sailor Circus Academy, a prorated portion of the tuition may be refunded. If a student is injured prior to attending a scheduled session and it prohibits them from participating, we will consider a refund upon review of the doctor’s note. A doctor’s note must be received prior to the start of the Sailor Circus Academy Gold Troupe session in order to be considered for a refund. The CAC reserves the right to make exceptions to this rule without setting precedent. Any tuition refunded will incur a $50 admin fee.
COVID-19
If a student or family member tests positive for COVID-19 the CAC will not refund the session or any missed or unused days (credits) of the session. Unused days will not be credited to any future programs or recreational classes.
RELEASE
Parents/Guardians are required to sign a general release and waiver of liability and indemnity agreement prior to the student being placed in a session. In addition to a release proof of insurance is required for all participants.
PARKING/ DROP OFF /PICK UP
All drop off and pick up for students is located at the midway gate adjacent to the Sarasota High School parking lot. Look for our “Circus Entrance” banner on the fence to direct you. Students should never be dropped off/ picked up in the staff parking lot/ticket sales lot by our main office. Parents/guardians may NOT escort students inside the building. Wait outside the main doors or the student may enter on their own.
VISITORS
Sailor Circus Academy Gold Troupe training is a closed space and we do not allow parents or guests to spectate during the training times. Parents/Guardians/Visitors are not permitted to stay during session time.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Bullying will not be tolerated under any circumstances. The consequence for not adhering to this policy is removal from the program.
Drop Off/Pick Up: All drop off and pick up for students is located at the midway gate adjacent to Sarasota High School parking lot. Look for our “Circus Entrance” banner on the fence to direct you. Students should never be dropped off/ picked up in the staff parking lot/ticket sales lot by our main office. Parents/guardians walk your child to the main doors and wait inside the doors for check in. CAC staff to greet you and check in your child.
We are putting the following measures in place for the safety and well being of staff, volunteers, campers, and families
COVID-19
If a student or family member tests positive for COVID-19 the CAC will not refund tuition for any missed days. If the student doesn’t return to training any unused tuition (credits) can not be used for future programming.
WWSB, ABC7
The Circus Arts Conservatory in Sarasota is presenting is grand finale to thousands of area fifth grade students and teachers. More
Gift certificates are PERFECT for any occasion, including Birthdays, Graduations, Weddings, Holidays, Anniversaries, and more! A gift certificate to The Circus Arts Conservatory is a thoughtful and unique present for your loved ones and friends.
Our Gift Certificates are good for twelve (12) months, activated on the date of purchase, and can be purchased individually or in multiples starting at $25!
Use for a single person or for a group. Can be used for recreational classes or private classes.
FOR DIRECTIONS, SEE BELOW.
(Youth Ages 6 – 15)
$25 ~ Gift Card – Single Class
$118.75 ~ Gift Card – Class 5 Pack
$225 ~ Gift Card – Class 10 Pack
Private Lesson – PLEASE INQUIRE (1-10 participants)
(Adult & Youth Ages 8 +)
$30 ~ Gift Card – Single Class
$142.50 ~ Gift Card – Class 5 Pack
$270 ~ Gift Card – Class 10 Pack
Private Lesson – PLEASE INQUIRE (1-10 participants)
(Adult & Youth Ages 6+)
$55 ~ Gift Card – Single Class
$261.25 ~ Gift Card – Class 5 Pack
$495 ~ Gift Card – Class 10 Pack
Private Lesson – PLEASE INQUIRE (1-10 participants)
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact
Tonia Bichler at 941.355.9335 ext. 326 or by email at Tonia@circusarts.org.
While the arena at the Circus Arts Conservatory site on Bahia Vista Street may be under construction, the show must – and will – go on for children seeking a more adventurous summer camp experience. From June through August, the Circus Arts Conservatory (CAC) will offer its popular Circus Summer Camp at the East Gymnasium at Sarasota High School.