CircEsteem, established in 2001, is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering social change through the innovative approach of social circus. By using the dynamic and engaging medium of circus arts, CircEsteem empowers Chicago's youth to build self-esteem, develop valuable life skills, in safe and inclusive environments. Our programs offer a unique blend of physical activity and creative expression, helping young people to grow in confidence, collaboration, and perseverance.
CircEsteem strives to make circus available to all students regardless of financial means.
To serve this mission, we offer financial aid to eligible participants.
Located in a number of CPS schools across Chicago and our Uptown Headquarters, HomeWork & CircusWork (HWCW) is a free after school program for youth.
Chicago Youth Circus (CYC) is a vibrant Saturday program held in two locations, dedicated to developing circus skills and providing performance opportunities for youth. Our program includes a variety of circus disciplines such as juggling, unicycle, gym wheel, trapeze, silks, lyra, clowning, and many other circus skills.
CircEsteem’s Performance Troupe is designed for experienced youth seeking to advance their skills to the next level and participate in performance opportunities through CircEsteem.
Weekly camps run from June 16th through August 29th.
Financial Aid Available!
The camp allows children to explore circus arts like aerial silks, trapeze, and tumbling in a supportive environment. Each themed week builds confidence, teamwork, and self-esteem through games, songs, and crafts, culminating in a performance for family and friends. Experience the magic of the circus at CircEsteem!
In this class, the caregiver plays the role of "coach," supporting and guiding their little one while also participating together in activities. You’ll learn fun games and exercises to practice at home, and have the opportunity to connect with other families in a supportive, collaborative environment.
Ages: Walking – 3 years old, with caregiver
Session 1: April 7 - May 6
Mondays @ 9:30-10:15 am
Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:15 am
Session 2: May 12 - June 10
Mondays @ 9:30-10:15 am
Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:15 am
Location: 4730 N. Sheridan
Open Circle is a new program - a time for adults 18 years or older to use the CircEsteem facility and equipment to train on circus apparatuses and/or participate in a breaking jam and training. There is no coach or instruction offered during this time. It is a time to train with our community. Good, Safe, Fun. Come play with us!
Open Circle at CircEsteem:
4730 N. Sheridan An open gym for circus practitioners and breakdancers ages 18+
When:
Thursdays, 6-9pm ~ Ongoing
Mondays, 11am-2pm ~ April 7-May 30
(Sessions restart Sep 8)
Monthly Pricing:
$50/month~ Thursday evenings OR Monday afternoons
$90/month ~ Thursday evenings AND Monday afternoons
Drop-In Session Pricing:
$15: arriving Thu 6-7pm or Mon 11am-12pm
$10: arriving Thu 7-8pm or Mon 12-1pm
$5: arriving Thu 8-9pm or Mon 1-2pm
Call 773-732-4564 for more information
or register at link below!
Ready to show off your circus skills? Join us on Saturdays for Chicago Youth Circus (CYC) and discover your inner star! Whether you're a juggling maestro or an aspiring acrobat, there's a place for YOU under the big top!
*Financial aid available
“To see the look in a kid’s eyes when they first juggle or spin a plate, it’s like a light goes off. It’s just so magical to see”
Sam Brown, Teaching Artist
Hire CircEsteem for your next birthday, bar/bat mitzvah, parade, corporate or professional sporting event. We provide strolling performers, interactive circus workshops, and fully produced circus shows.
CircEsteem relies on the generosity of its donors and partners.
Opportunities include, but are not limited to: Tutoring and Performance Support.
Make the circle bigger. From acrobatics to accounting, we appreciate your help!
