Circus coming to Estero

Circus Sarasota, with an unparalleled all-star lineup of thrilling circus acts, will perform eight times weekly beginning March 11 at the Circus Sarasota Big Top on the grounds of the Miramar Outlets in Estero.

Circus Sarasota is known for bringing international talent and astounding artistry to audiences; including many award-winning artists from around the world. Yet, unlike most other circuses who come into a town and leave after performances, Circus Sarasota is partnering with Voices for Kids, the volunteer support arm of Guardian ad Litem for Lee and Collier counties for their fundraising gala on March 8 under the Big Top.

"Not only are we partnering with Voices for Kids now, but are planting the seeds to extend our Laughter Unlimited outreach programming in this region so that we have an ongoing service to provide to the community throughout the year," said Pedro Reis, Founder and CEO of Circus Sarasota.

Proceeds from Circus Sarasota performances provide 80 percent of the funds necessary to support Laughter Unlimited, a goal-oriented outreach program for nursing homes that produce measurable results for those with Alzheimers and other age-related dementia. Circus Sarasota's Big Top Education, which enlivens core studies in elementary and middle schools with the circus arts, provides practical examples of physics, math and English in action.

This is the first tour outside of Sarasota for Circus Sarasota which is quickly becoming "Florida's Famous" and favorite circus. There will be eight performances per week from March 11 through March 30. Tickets for the Sarasota and Estero performances are now available for purchase online at www.circussarasota. org. The box office will open March 1 onsite at the Big Top located at the Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road.

Founded in Sarasota, Florida in 1997 by Pedro Reis and Dolly Jacob, Circus Sarasota is a not-for-profit performing arts educational organization. Circus Sarasota is committed to broadening the artistic contribution of circus, while raising the level and perception of the American Circus to that of the other fine arts. Circus Sarasota will be presenting its 2008 season performances Feb. 1-24.