The Aloft Loft Circus is a cultural and performance arts center in Chicago, Illinois dedicated to the aerial and circus arts established in 2005 by Shayna Swanson. [1]
Aloft has become a cornerstone for circus arts in Chicago having moving from a Humboldt Park garage to the West Loop, and finally to its current location in a historic church in Logan Square [2].
Location and Venue
Since late 2015, Aloft has been housed in a 111-year-old church at 3324 W. Wrightwood Ave in Logan Square. This venue, with its historic architecture and spacious interior, has allowed Aloft to offer a wide range of classes on circus disciplines such as trapeze and trampolines. The relocation and renovation of this space mark a significant milestone in Aloft's history, transforming the church into Chicago's first permanent, legal circus-specific venue [2].
Notable Events
Aloft Circus Arts is known for its dynamic performances and innovative shows, including:
- Sanctuary: A series described as a cross between a punk cabaret and circus. [3] [4]
- El Circo Cheapo Cabaret: The original event series that showcases a diverse range of circus talents at an accessible price point. [2]
- Dinner of our Discontent: A full-length show that combines the innovation of new circus movement with the daring of traditional circus shows. [5]
- Science of Heart: Another full-length spectacle that reflects Aloft's commitment to engaging storytelling through circus arts [6].
Cultural Impact
Aloft Circus Arts has significantly impacted Chicago's cultural landscape, not just as a venue for performances but as a community hub for artists and performers. Its dedication to providing training and performance opportunities has fostered a nurturing environment for both neophytes and professional performers. The organization's commitment to accessibility and community engagement ensures that circus arts remain a vibrant and integral part of Chicago's artistic scene [7].
References
- ^ "Logan Square Church's Transformation To Elite Circus School Nearly Complete". DNAinfo Chicago. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ a b c "Logan Square's Aloft Circus School Becomes City's First Circus Performing Arts Venue". Block Club Chicago. 2020-03-02. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ Reid, Kerry (2020-05-12). "Aloft Circus Arts and Actors Gymnasium bring the circus from their homes to yours". Chicago Reader. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ "Aloft Presents Sanctuary: 4 star review by Alex Bailey Dillon". broadwaybaby.com. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ Molzahn, Laura (2014-08-15). "REVIEW: Aloft Circus Arts 'Dinner of Our Discontent' ★★½". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ "'Brave Space', by Aloft Circus Arts". The Circus Diaries. 2022-12-10.
- ^ "Review: Brave Space, Aloft Circus Arts, Ed Fringe, By Hannah Goslin". Get The Chance. 2023-08-23. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
External Links
The Aloft Loft Circus is a cultural and performance arts center in Chicago, Illinois dedicated to the aerial and circus arts established in 2005 by Shayna Swanson. [1]
Aloft has become a cornerstone for circus arts in Chicago having moving from a Humboldt Park garage to the West Loop, and finally to its current location in a historic church in Logan Square [2].
Location and Venue
Since late 2015, Aloft has been housed in a 111-year-old church at 3324 W. Wrightwood Ave in Logan Square. This venue, with its historic architecture and spacious interior, has allowed Aloft to offer a wide range of classes on circus disciplines such as trapeze and trampolines. The relocation and renovation of this space mark a significant milestone in Aloft's history, transforming the church into Chicago's first permanent, legal circus-specific venue [2].
Notable Events
Aloft Circus Arts is known for its dynamic performances and innovative shows, including:
- Sanctuary: A series described as a cross between a punk cabaret and circus. [3] [4]
- El Circo Cheapo Cabaret: The original event series that showcases a diverse range of circus talents at an accessible price point. [2]
- Dinner of our Discontent: A full-length show that combines the innovation of new circus movement with the daring of traditional circus shows. [5]
- Science of Heart: Another full-length spectacle that reflects Aloft's commitment to engaging storytelling through circus arts [6].
Cultural Impact
Aloft Circus Arts has significantly impacted Chicago's cultural landscape, not just as a venue for performances but as a community hub for artists and performers. Its dedication to providing training and performance opportunities has fostered a nurturing environment for both neophytes and professional performers. The organization's commitment to accessibility and community engagement ensures that circus arts remain a vibrant and integral part of Chicago's artistic scene [7].
References
- ^ "Logan Square Church's Transformation To Elite Circus School Nearly Complete". DNAinfo Chicago. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ a b c "Logan Square's Aloft Circus School Becomes City's First Circus Performing Arts Venue". Block Club Chicago. 2020-03-02. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ Reid, Kerry (2020-05-12). "Aloft Circus Arts and Actors Gymnasium bring the circus from their homes to yours". Chicago Reader. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ "Aloft Presents Sanctuary: 4 star review by Alex Bailey Dillon". broadwaybaby.com. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ Molzahn, Laura (2014-08-15). "REVIEW: Aloft Circus Arts 'Dinner of Our Discontent' ★★½". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 2024-03-08.
- ^ "'Brave Space', by Aloft Circus Arts". The Circus Diaries. 2022-12-10.
- ^ "Review: Brave Space, Aloft Circus Arts, Ed Fringe, By Hannah Goslin". Get The Chance. 2023-08-23. Retrieved 2024-03-08.