Circus coming to Estero
The Big Top opens at Miromar Outlets
SPECIAL TO FLORIDA WEEKLY

COURTESY PHOTO World renowned as one of the funniest and most talented comedic performers, Jimmy Folco has been a headliner on all of the major Circuses and Variety Theatres in Europe. Folco, a clown in the classic Italian style, is joyful, ludicrous, and a classic yet modern master of the situation comedy.

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

Circus Sarasota is known for bringing international talent and astounding artistry to audiences; including many awardwinning 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

COURTESY PHOTO The four Ukrainians of Crazy Flight fly effortlessly through the air, vaulting, tumbling and balancing in an inspiring harmony of athleticism and artistry.

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 notfor 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.

.. If you go

>>What: Circus Sarasota

>>When: A fundraising gala will be Saturday March 8 at 6 p.m. Performances begin Tuesday, March 11 at 7 p.m. and run through March 30

>>Where: Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero

>>Cost: $10-$45, discounts and tickets are available at www.circussarasota.org

>>Info: Call (877) 355-9805

Gala helps kids in need

The 4th annual Voices for Kids Gala will held at 6 p.m. on March 8 at Miromar Outlet Mall under the Big Top. This elegant evening will feature a performance by Circus Sarasota, a cirque-style circus, silent auction, catered dinner by Lee Roy Selmon's American Grill and dancing to the Mighty Quint. All funds raised go to the Guardian ad Litem program to support our mission to ensure that every abused and neglected child has a Guardian ad Litem to advocate for them in court. No child should have to navigate the legal system alone. This event is being sponsored in part by Fort Myers Toyota, Dwyer's Restaurant and Suffolk Construction. For ticket info call Voices for Kids at 997-5437.