For the second year, Circus Sarasota’s Big Top has found a home at Nathan Benderson Park (NBP), behind The Mall at University Town Center. The collaboration between two non-profit organizations, The Circus Arts Conservatory (CAC) and the Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Association (SANCA), is a valuable partnership for two groups not only focused on community impact, but also a successful joint venture that benefits that community and its cultural legacy.
Circus Sarasota’s Red and White Big Top, now a staple in the I-75 corridor, has been up since January and will continue to hold strong through March. During this time, the tent will host performances, special events and more, alongside SANCA’s ongoing events, training, and everyday programming. This multi-use county property allows for expansion of community life and liveliness. For SANCA, the emphasis on rowing and other physical activities expands to the athletics of the circus arts, and for The CAC, that fitness focus includes new ground – literally.
“By SANCA offering the Big Top a home for our annual circus performances, they help the legacy of the circus,” said CAC Managing Director Jennifer Mitchell. “Moreover, SANCA is bringing arts and culture to this world class sporting venue and highlighting Sarasota’s incredible assets.”
The pairing of The CAC and SANCA is appropriate for Sarasota, a city well known for its diverse cultivation. Furthermore, a partnership with as many outlets as this one is a way for both the organizations and their patrons to show their support of area arts, sports and overall culture. It is a partnership that could arguably make John Ringling proud, just down University Parkway from his sprawling mansion where he himself brought the arts to this area.
Tickets to “Red, White & BELLO!” are still available for purchase – visit CircusArts.org or call The CAC Box Office at 941-355-9805. For more information on SANCA and Nathan Benderson Park, visit www.worldclassrowing.com. |