About
We expand human and theatrical potential through the vital forms of circus arts by providing artistic and educational programs that push the limits of physical, emotional, and creative expression.
At The Actors Gymnasium, people learn to fly – physically emotionally, and creatively.
Founded in 1995, we have grown to become one of the nation’s premiere circus and performing arts training centers. We are dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American theatre, through developing physical performers and encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration.
We promote our core values of creativity, community, and courage across three program areas:
Classes
We teach circus arts and performance skills both on site and offsite at other community locations.
Our Professional Training Program and Summer Circus Intensive serve artists from across the United States and beyond.
Weekly classes for students of all ages and experience levels reach over 1,000 students per year, while our summer and winter camps engage over 200 youth.
Shows
We produce nine original circus-theatre productions per year.
Our shows provide students with invaluable performance opportunities, and the annual premiere of our Winter Circus features professional circus artists alongside our up-and-coming young performers.
We also collaborate with theaters ranging from local Chicago storefronts to major regional companies. Previous collaborators have included Lookingglass Theatre, Goodman Theatre, Chicago Children's Theatre, and more.
Event Entertainment
We showcase professional circus artists through our award-winning and awe-inspiring event entertainment.
Events range from private weddings to major public parades, and everything in between.
These help support our mission by raising the profile of Chicago’s circus community and introducing people to this vital and exciting art form.
Even as an audience member, the work you do inspires me into metaphorical flight. Every performance or class I've witnessed lights me up and jump starts my imagination and drive. Thank you for flying lessons.
– Scott S.
Visit Us
Though we’ve called the Noyes Cultural Arts Center in Evanston, IL home for over 25 years, our programming reaches students and audiences across the Chicagoland area and beyond.
927 Noyes St. Suite 110
Evanston, IL 60201
Located just off the Noyes Purple Line ‘L’ stop!
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