PREVIEW: Spring Circus Week is on its way to Troy
4/14 - 4/19 @ Mount Ida Preservation Hall, Troy
Courtesy of The Big Top Group
“We are thrilled to host Circus Week at Mount Ida, a place where history and creativity converge. Partnering with The Big Top Group to bring the circus arts to this beautiful, historic setting is truly a dream come true.”
The historic Mt. Ida Preservation Hall in Troy is getting ready to burst with color, laughter, and energy as The Big Top Group rolls into town with Spring Circus Week.
From April 14 to 19, families, kids, and circus lovers of all ages can experience the wonder of circus arts up close, thanks to a new partnership between The Big Top Group and Westchester Circus Arts.
The week starts with a five-day, Spring Youth Circus Camp running April 14–18. Designed for kids ages 7–17, the camp invites young performers to explore circus skills ranging from aerial silks and hoops to tightrope, juggling, acrobatics, clowning, and more.
Each day runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with aftercare available until 5:30 p.m. Campers train in small groups with expert instructors from Westchester Circus Arts. The week comes to a head with a fun final performance on Friday, where friends and families are invited to cheer on their stars in the making.
Finally, on Saturday, April 19, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., a Family Fun Circus Festival will be held in honor of World Circus Day! The event promises thrills and smiles with live performances by nationally acclaimed artists:
Award-winning juggler Jasper Murphy brings his breathtaking technique and 15 years of dazzling audiences to the stage.
Physical theater artist and clown Ivan Jermyn, who has performed with Cirque Du Soleil and Circus Smirkus, delivers humor, heart, and fantastic showmanship.
Aerialist Maia Casto Santos, trained at the New England Center for Circus Arts, soars with grace in every performance.
Carlo Pellegrini, whose circus career spans four decades, brings his signature energy and timeless magic to the ring.
“We are thrilled to host Circus Week at Mt. Ida, a place where history and creativity converge,” said Micheal Easterbrook, executive director of the Mt. Ida Preservation Association. “Partnering with The Big Top Group to bring the circus arts to this beautiful, historic setting is truly a dream come true.”
Formerly known as the Contemporary Circus and Immersive Arts Center, The Big Top Group is dedicated to enriching culture within the region through education, performance, and play.
“We are excited to bring this immersive circus experience to the youth of Troy,” said Barb Nelson, chair of the organization. “Our partnership with Westchester Circus Arts ensures that campers receive top-notch instruction in a fun and supportive environment.”
Westchester Circus Arts is led by Hilary Sweeney, a circus artist and aerialist with over 15 years in the field. Program development is shaped by Carlo Pellegrini, a seasoned performer whose career spans four decades with companies like the Lichtenstein Circus and Big Apple Circus.
“Performing in Troy is always such a treat,” said Sweeney. “We love making the inspiration of the circus accessible to all audiences.”
Courtesy of The Big Top Group
Camp registration is $425 for the week, with sibling discounts and aftercare options available. Spaces are limited and fill quickly, so families are encouraged to register early at www.thebigtopgroup.org or by emailing info@thebigtopgroup.org.
Festival-goers can also try their hand at circus skills, enjoy face painting, and snack on classic treats like popcorn and cotton candy. Tickets are $12 per person and can be purchased online or at the door.
Whether you're a curious kid, a circus enthusiast, or simply someone looking for some joy this spring, Circus Week in Troy offers an unforgettable celebration of artistry, community, and imagination.
For updates, registration, and ticketing, visit www.thebigtopgroup.org or call (518) 694-2810.