Circus Harmony is a place and an organization unlike any other in St. Louis. We use circus arts to motivate social change by building character in individuals, building bridges between communities and building human pyramids with children of all ages and backgrounds. In this time of mistrust and fear in the world, we teach children to live from a different viewpoint. Still, some might wonder why a parent would send their daughter to us to be used as a human jumprope? Or who would let us take their son to Israel while it was being bombed? One of the greatest compliments I ever got after a show was from a parent who said “I would trust you with my child.” I would like to share some words from some of our parents about what their children have found at Circus Harmony:
“I’m continually amazed and humbled by this community and the attention they are willing and able to give each student, as well as the open arms we are greeted with. It is a place of learning and teamwork, of course, but it is different from other institutions we have experienced. Here, it’s like a family. And what they are learning, to trust each other, to listen, to humble themselves and to recognize the strength in others, are all things we want our boys to learn as they grow. They are learning how to use their bodies and to be confident, but they are also learning character.” (Parent of three boys ages 4, 6 and 8)
Our daughter “has been welcomed at Circus Harmony not as a “special” person who is tolerated or patronized, but as a human being who has the same mix of talents and flaws as any of the rest of us. She’s been continually encouraged to make the best of her personal skills and abilities in a fun, loving, patient, and inclusive atmosphere. For the first time in her life, she feels like she fits in somewhere. She feels like she has friends. She feels a sense of purpose and a sense of belonging.” (Parent of 15 year old girl)
“I feel really proud that he’s a part of it because it is a candle in this dark, dark time. They’re helping to do something to light a little flame that hopefully will lead to a better situation in Israel.” (Parent of a 15 year old boy)
“You have paved the way for so many children and creating that platform not just for our youth… for the community but for diversity, different ethnic back grounds and more.” (Mother of 22 year old young man who has graduated from our program and is working as circus performer around the world)
“What is the purpose of art? To make more of reality accessible to us. What is the purpose of Circus?
To help us see the reality of our greatness. What is the purpose of Acrobatics? To show us the magical realm of possibilities that opens up when we work together. What is it like to live with a circus star? It reminds me every day, that if he can fly, then at least metaphorically I can too! There is so much more that is possible for any of us than we have ever been allowed to dream for ourselves. He also reminds me that we all soar when we find an opening and support to develop that which is core to ourselves. I wish Circus Harmony level support for every child and adult on earth.” (Parent of 11 year old boy)
I am honored that people see and appreciate that behind the deserved applause our flying children earn in the ring, they are also learning to make themselves, the world and each other better. My goal is that Circus Harmony gives children the opportunity to grow into creative, courageous and compassionate circus artists and people. They are the hope for the future, not merely of circus but, quite literally, of the world.
We are just sending out our fall appeal. If you are moved to support our work to help more children be able defy gravity and other limitations and bring hope through Circus Harmony, please go to: https://circusharmony.org/support/.
Thank you!
Jessica Hentoff
Artistic/Executive Director
Circus Harmony