LET YOUR CHILD RUN AWAY THIS SUMMER!
(AND JOIN THE CIRCUS)
SARASOTA’S MOST UNIQUE SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE
One & Two-Week Sessions, June 5 – August 4 • Monday-Friday 9am-3pm
Registration Opens in February 2023
Trapeze • Rolling Globe • Silks • Rolla Bolla • Trampoline
Hula Hoop • Wire Walking • Clowning • Juggling
costumed performance at the end of each session in air-conditioned comfort
Ages 6 – 15 Years Old (Campers must be a minimum of 6 years old and have completed kindergarten)
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.
Field Trips: The two week session will go on a field trip to see The Summer Circus Spectacular at The Ringling.
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). Circus boys: tee shirts, gym shorts, briefs (no boxer shorts), sliders and leggings for aerialist. Shoes required.
The last Friday of the session, girls are required to bring solid tights in their skin tone. (Walmart, Target, Amazon, etc.)
Showcase Fridays: The last Friday of each session features a live showcase. Campers may invite family and friends to attend the 3:30 performance. Doors open at 3:15. All campers are dismissed immediately after the showcase after changing out of their costume.
Please Note: Campers dropped off before 8:55am will incur a $ daily drop in fee. Campers picked up after 3:10pm will incur a $ drop in fee.
Registration: All registration forms and information will be in your emailed purchase receipt. Click The Summer Camp Registration link. Registration forms required at the time of purchase.
Group Requests: Campers may request to be in a group with a friend, but we can not guarantee the request will be granted. Refund requests will not be granted due to camper placements. Q & A below for more information.
READ BEFORE REGESTERING: 1. Be sure to add your child to your Mind Body Account and enroll your child in the camp session, not yourself. Do not add a note that the session is for your child. Make sure you receive an email with your campers name and camp session. If you do not, the purchase and reservation did not go through correctly. 2. Fill out the registration form found in your emailed purchase receipt under the Summer Camp link (NOT the Recreational Class Waiver) . Registration forms are required at the time of your purchase to guarantee your campers spot. Failure to follow these directions means your desired session is not guaranteed. If your desired camp session is full, you will have to select another available session. If your campers name is on the receipt and you have received an email confirmation of your camp session and you have filled out the registration form found in your emailed receipt you are all set. After May 1st camp sessions are non-refundable. Need help? Email Tonia
Summer Camp 2023 Session Dates
(Pre-Registration Required)
Registration Opens in February 2023
- SESSION 1
- June 5-9
- Registration Opens In February
- SESSION 2
- June 12-16
- Registration Opens In February
- SESSION 3
- June 19-23
- Registration Opens In February
- SESSION 4
- June 26-30
- Registration Opens In February
- SESSION 5 (Two Weeks)
- July 5-14
Includes Field Trip - Registration Opens In February
- SESSION 6
- July 10-14
- Registration Opens In February
- SESSION 7
- July 17-21
- Registration Opens In February
- SESSION 8
- July 24-28
- Registration Opens In February
- SESSION 9
- July 31- August 4
- Registration Opens In February
- BEFORE CARE
- $ PER WEEK (Pre-registration Required)
- Drop in – $ PER DAY (Subject to Availability)
- 2 WEEK SESSION (Pre-registration Required)
- $
- CAMP
- 1 WEEK SESSION (Pre-registration Required)
- $
- 2 WEEK SESSION (Pre-registration Required)
- $
- AFTER CARE
- $ PER WEEK (Pre-registration Required)
- Drop in – $ PER DAY(Subject to Availability)
- 2 WEEK SESSION (Pre-registration Required)
- $
Enrollment
- Campers are enrolled on a first-come, first-serve basis as per the date of receipt of the registration form and fees
- Confirmation of enrollment and receipt will be sent via email through Mind Body
Waiting List
- When a session is full, you will have the option to enroll on a waiting list.
- Family is notified via email / phone when space becomes available
Session Date Change
- Session change requests are based on availability of spaces in camp
- Session changes can be denied if they are not made 14-days in advance
- If the session is available we will move campers one time at no charge. Additional requests will incur a $25 fee per child per session.
Refunds
- Please see our Policies and Procedures Tab
Medical Refund Policy
- Please see our Policies and Procedures Tab
Release
- Parents/Guardians are required to sign a “General Release” and a “Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement” prior to a Circus Summer Camper being admitted
- Proof of insurance is required for all Circus Summer Campers
TUITION COST
$ for 1 week session
$ for two week sessions
CAMP ENROLLMENT
Is secure once payment in full is collected and ALL FORMS are completed ( ALL registration forms are completed online and will come in your purchase email receipt )
REGISTRATION FEE
No Registration Fees
CAMP HOURS
Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 3p.m. Campers should arrive between 8:55 a.m. & 9 a.m. and must be picked up by 3:10 p.m. Campers dropped off before 8:55 a.m. will incur a $ daily drop in fee. Campers picked up after 3:10 p.m. will incur a $ drop in fee. No parents or visitors are allowed inside the arena during camp hours. For the safety of campers and staff the arena doors and gates will be secure from 9:30 – 2:30 daily.
BEFORE AND AFTERCARE
Before care hours are 8:00AM – 8:55AM
$ Per Week
Pre-registration required, space is limited.
Single day rates for before care- $ per day. Subject to availability
Aftercare hours are 3:15 – 5:30PM
$ Per Week
Snack included, 35 minutes of circus programming, movie time-schedule available upon request.
Single day rates for after care $ 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 reliable back up 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 in Mindbody and the Google Registration Form. Confirmation of enrollment and receipt, along with a link for registration documents, will be sent via email through MindBody.
WAITING LIST
When a camp session fills, you may enroll onto the waitlist through MindBody. Applicants will be notified if space becomes available by email/phone. Tuition fees are not processed until applicants are placed in a session. You will be notified via email if a spot opens and you will have 24 hours to reply or the spot will be offered to the next person on the waitlist.
SESSION CHANGE / RESCHEDULING
Session change requests are based on the availability of spaces in camp. Please contact Tonia Bichler at 941.355.9805 ext. 326 or email her at Tonia@CircusArts.org Refunds will not be processed for cancellations or schedule changes. If space is available we will gladly move campers one (1) time at no charge. Requests must be made at least two weeks prior to the start of the desired session and at least two weeks BEFORE the currently enrolled session starts.
REFUNDS
Refunds may be requested until May 1 and a $50 admin fee will be deducted. After May 1 there will not be any refunds. If your camp session is purchased after May 1 there are no refunds. Cancellation requests must be emailed to Tonia Bichler at Tonia@circusarts.org prior to May 1.
There are no refunds for cancellation or schedule changes after May 1. Any cancellations made after May 1 are not eligible for a refund.
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), 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 another session the camper may be moved to a session with open spots.
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) 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.
RELEASE
Parents/Guardians are required to sign a general release and waiver of liability and indemnity agreement prior to camper being placed in a session. In addition to a release proof of insurance is required for all campers.
CAMP POLICIES
PARKING/ DROP OFF /PICK UP
Campers should be walked to the main doors of the arena where camp staff will check campers in. Once camp begins parents/guardians will not be allowed inside the arena. Campers will be picked up from the same doors as drop off.
VISITORS
Circus camp is a closed space and we do not allow parents or guests to spectate during camp hours or during After care. Parents/Guardians/Visitors are not permitted to stay during camp session time.
SNACKS
- Campers need to bring two healthy snacks per day.
- Bring a water bottle to refill during the day.
LUNCH
- Campers must bring their own lunch.
- Campers need healthy lunches to supply them with enough energy to excel. Please send your child to camp with a good protein source and fruit and/or vegetables.
- We do not allow soda, gum or candy, cookies other junk food at camp. Please don’t send it with the students.
- No peanut products are allowed at camps.
- We do not a have a microwave to heat lunches
ATTIRE
- Campers should wear clothing that is easy to move in and appropriate for being upside down.
- Circus girls should wear leotards or one piece bathing suits with leggings or shorts to go over leotards; hair ties (hair must be up if long), closed toed shoes and socks are preferred.
- Circus boys should wear tee shirts, gym shorts, briefs (no boxer shorts), sliders or leggings for aerialist, and close toed shoes.
- Girl campers must wear black leggings and boy campers must wear black shorts during the last two days of each session.
- NO pajamas, cargo shorts or jeans.
- Shoes required.
PERSONAL ITEMS
- NO jewelry, watches, or other valuables are allowed at camp
- NO Electronics such as cell phones, laptops, mini computers, Ipods, MP3 players, e-readers, money or checks, and portable game consoles.
- We do not have secure lockers for personal storage. The CAC is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged items brought to camp.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
- Personal hygiene is very important for health and our safety. Body to body contact inevitably leads to spreading of germs so keep your child’s body clean.
- All cuts or open wounds must be covered with a bandage.
- Campers may not share clothes, hair ties, combs or hair brushes.
- Campers may not share drinking containers.
- Campers must wash their hands often and use the hand sanitizers located throughout the facility.
- We do our best to keep the facility and equipment clean with regular sanitary maintenance. We ask our campers follow do the same.
CODE OF CONDUCT
- All campers will adhere to the full values contract below. Full Values Contract is a verbal agreement within a group to try, support, and encourage everyone to achieve their personal best.
- The F.V.C. is used to secure the bonds of teamwork, perseverance, and dedication in a learning environment.
- We will ask the campers to abide by the following philosophy: “I will try everything and be respectful to my instructors; I will try everything and support and encourage myself and my friends; I will model this behavior all the time because I am a leader by example”.
- Parents please discuss examples of good behavior with your children to aid in the cohesion and flow of camp functions.
- The consequence for not adhering to this policy is removal from camp activities, removal from the showcase or dismissal from camp.
- Bullying will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
SHOWCASE DETAILS –
- On the final day of the camp session, we will end the camp experience with a showcase at 3:30 p.m. for a limited audience.
- Doors will open at 3:15PM.
- Parents may take photos of campers in costume from 3:15 – 3:30. The show will last approximately 45 minutes.
- A limited summer menu in will be offered in our concession stand.
- Camp merchandise will be available for purchase.
- After the show, campers will need to change out of their costumes.
- All campers are dismissed immediately after they change out of their costumes. No aftercare available on showcase Fridays.
Policies Updated February 2022
As of today masks will not be required for campers, but encouraged. The CAC reserves the right to change the mask policy at any time. Updates will be made on this page.
The following protocols are being put in place and subject to change as appropriate:
- Masks are optional
- If your child has symptoms or has been exposed to COVID please do not send them to camp.
- All campers will be required to report any flu-like or COVID-19 symptoms
- If a camper or family member tests positive for COVID 19 the camp staff must be immediately notified.
Drop off/Pick up – Drop off – Parents should park in the Sarasota High School parking lot and escort their children through the Circus Entrance gate and wait outside the main doors, at 8:50am camp staff will open the doors for check in. The doors will open again at 3:00pm for dismissal. No parents or guardians will be allowed inside the arena facility during camp, no exceptions.
We are putting the following measures in place for the safety and well being of staff, volunteers, campers, and families
- Sanitizing all communal spaces, and equipment daily.
- The Circus Arts Conservatory reserves the right to cancel or modify any planned program, camp session or scheduled class due to insufficient enrollment, in which case, refunds or credit toward future programming will be processed.
Refunds may be requested until May 1 and a $50 admin fee will be deducted. After May 1 there will not be any refunds.
COVID-19
If a camper or family member tests positive for COVID-19 the CAC will not refund the session or any unused days (credits) of the session. Unused days will not be credited to any future camps. If space is available the camper may move to another session and pay a prorated rate for any additional days (credits) already used to complete the session. If a camper is not able to move to another session, by choice or if no camp sessions are available, no refund or credit will be given.
HOW TO REGISTER GUIDE
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.
SUMMER CAMP PLANNING GUIDE
This guide will help you prepare for your camp experience.
NEED BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
All applicants will be notified via email regarding eligibility after May 30.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ages for Circus Summer Camp?
Ages 6-15 Years Old (Your child must have completed kindergarten and be 6 years old by the start of camp. No exceptions)
What are your Circus Summer Camp hours?
Monday-Friday 9am-3pm (drop off begins at 8:55am)
Where is Circus Summer Camp located?
In the newly renovated and air-conditioned Sailor Circus Arena located at 2075 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota, FL 34239.
Where do I drop off, pick up and park? Do I have to come in?
- Drop off – Parents should park in the Sarasota High School parking lot and WALK their children through the Circus Entrance gate and to the main doors for check In. Pick-up – Parents should wait outside the Arena main doors for their child’s dismissal.
Can I print out or pick up a registration form?
No, all registration is done online. Registration forms are in your emailed purchase receipt.
Do you have before care and aftercare?
Yes, the hours are 8-8:55 am for before care M-F; and 3:15-5:30pm for after care M-TH .
Space is limited. Enrollment is on a first come first served basis.
Yes, See pricing above on the camp home page.
Campers dropped off before 8:55am will incur a $ daily drop in fee. Campers picked up after 3:10pm will incur a $ drop in fee.
There is maximum number of campers in Before Care and Aftercare. Early registration is encouraged as drop-ins may not be available on all days. The only way to guarantee care is with the full session registration.
Do you have per day before care and after care prices?
Yes, See pricing above on the camp home page.
A maximum number of campers can enrolled in Before Care and Aftercare. Early registration is encouraged as drop-ins may not be available on all days. The only way to guarantee care is with the full session registration.
What if I am late for After Care pick up?
Campers not picked up by 5:30PM will incur a $5 dollar charge for every minute past 5:30, per camper. No Exceptions.
Do you offer discounts for siblings or multiple sessions?
No.
Can I register online?
Yes!! Use the “how to register for summer camp guide” link on our website OR click REGISTER NOW button.
What should my child wear to circus camp?
Circus girls: leotards or one piece bathing suits with leggings or shorts to go over leotards; hair ties (hair must be up if long). Circus boys: tee shirts, gym shorts, briefs (no boxer shorts), sliders and leggings for aerialist.
The last Friday, girls are required to wear tights matching their skin tone.
What should my child bring to camp every day?
A healthy lunch, two healthy snacks, a refillable water bottle with your child’s’ name on it.
Don’t forget to bring a smile too!
What should my child NOT wear or bring to camp?
1) We do not allow soda, gum or candy, cookies other junk food at camp. Please don’t send it with your child.
2) NO pajamas, cargo shorts or jeans, flip flops, sandals or slippers
3) NO jewelry, or watches, or other valuables are allowed at camp
4) NO Electronics such as cell phones, laptops, mini computers, Ipods, MP3 players, money or checks, or portable game consoles.
Do you provide lunch?
No, campers should bring a healthy lunch to camp each day.
Do you provide snacks?
No, campers should bring two healthy snacks each day.
What are the dates and times of the Showcase Programs?
Showcases will be held on the last Friday of each session for a live limited audience.
What is a typical day like at Circus Summer Camp?
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, theatre games, arts and circus crafts, showcase act rehearsal, snack, check-out and group games, dismissal
How are the students separated into groups?
The students are separated first by age into a HOME group where they will have 1 counselor and 2-3 junior counselors assisting them; and then by interest and ability into a SHOWCASE ACT group. Showcase acts groups will encompass all ages and have a lead trainer that may or may not be the same counselor as their home group counselor.
How does the camp place the students into their Showcase Act groups?
On the first day of camp we conduct a “round robin” and have the student try out each of the different acts that are offered for that session. The counselors evaluate each student at the end of the different events. The students are evaluated on their ability to take direction, natural talents, potential to learn, strength, prior circus or comparable experience, and general attitude. The students also provide us with their top 3 choices of acts at the end of the round robin experience. Based on the counselor recommendations and the student’s interest, we cast the acts for the showcase.
Can campers request to be with their friends?
Campers may request to be in a group with a friend, but we can not guarantee the request will be granted. Campers are separated first by age into a HOME group where they will have 1 counselor and 2-3 junior counselors assisting them; and then by interest and ability into a SHOWCASE ACT group. Showcase acts groups will encompass all ages and have a lead trainer that may or may not be the same counselor as their home group counselor.
If my child does not make it into their top choice, will they still have a chance to practice that activity at camp?
Yes
Are there scheduled field trips?
The two week session will go on a field trip to see the Summer Circus Spectacular at The Ringling.
Will there be a chance for campers to fly on the trapeze?
YES!
Can campers register to attend one week of a two-week session?
No, campers can only register to attend both weeks of a two-week session.
What is your camp refund policy?
Refunds may be requested until May 1 and a $50 admin fee will be deducted. After May 1 there will not be any refunds.
OPEN IN MAPS!
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.
