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.
Step right up for a whimsical circus adventure where change isn’t just magical—it’s spectacular! Completely devised by our CYC youth & coaches, this high-energy spectacle features dizzying diabolos, juggernaut jugglers, trendy tightrope trendsetters, and unstoppable unicyclists. But that’s just the beginning! Hold your breath as daring aerialists soar on silks, swing on trapeze, and spin on Lyra. Turn pennies into possibilities, and join this cast of wacky performers as they explore all ways we see change & transformation in the world. Because in life, just like in the circus, a little change can make a BIG difference!
Weekly camps run from June 16th through August 29th.
Early Bird Registration for CircEsteem Summer Circus Camp ends March 1, 2025. 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!
Day at the Circus camps will be offered on the following non-CPS attendance days for the 2024/ 2025 School Year: Jan. 21, Feb. 25, March 31, April 1, and April 18. *BYO Snack, Lunch, & Water Bottle.
Each day will include a deeper dive into specific skills, group games, and arts & crafts activities. Each day camp will have a theme.
The next camp date is Monday, March 31st. There is a cap of 20 students to this Day Camp, so reserve your spot now!
Location: 4730 N. Sheridan
Ages: 6-16
Time: 9am - 3pm
Cost: $97
*Financial aid available
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
Enjoy all the fun social circus has to offer!
Join us for a week of juggling, acrobatics, friendship and more!
Spring Break Camp:
Dates: 03/24/2025-03/28/2025
Times: 9am-3pm
Location: 4730 N. Sheridan
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.
“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!
