The Actors Gymnasium

The Actors Gymnasium offers circus arts and performance skills, including weekly classes, summer circus camps, and summer and winter camps. The program also runs a Professional Training Program, a Summer Circus Intensive, and creates circus-theatre productions and event entertainment.

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Schedule: Six-week programs for teens and adults

Founded in 1995, The Actors Gymnasium is Chicago’s oldest circus school and is described as one of the nation’s premiere circus and performing arts training centers. It produces nine original circus-theatre productions per year, including an annual Winter Circus that features professional circus artists alongside young performers. Its weekly classes for students of all ages and experience levels reach over 1,000 students per year, and its summer and winter camps engage over 200 youth. The organization states that it is dedicated to expanding human and theatrical potential through circus arts by pushing the limits of physical, emotional, and creative expression.

The Actors Gymnasium’s programming and award-winning entertainment reach students and audiences across the Chicagoland area and beyond. It collaborates with theaters ranging from local Chicago storefronts to major regional companies, including Lookingglass Theatre, Goodman Theatre, and Chicago Children’s Theatre. Its events range from private weddings to major public parades, and these activities are described as supporting its mission by raising the profile of Chicago’s circus community and introducing people to circus arts.

One audience member shared that every performance or class they have witnessed “lights me up and jump starts my imagination and drive” and thanked The Actors Gymnasium “for flying lessons.”

Last updated May 23, 2026.