Aloft Circus Arts

Aloft Circus Arts is Chicago’s premier circus arts teaching, training, and performance space, housed in a uniquely converted old church building in the Logan Square neighborhood at 3324 W. Wrightwood Avenue. The facility serves as a vibrant community hub for both recreational students and professional circus artists, offering a cool and welcoming environment for people to explore aerial arts.

The organization offers classes for adults and children across multiple aerial disciplines. Adult recreational classes include Aerial Basics options in Silks and Trapeze, which serve as introductions to aerial arts for beginners at affordable rates. More advanced offerings include classes in various aerial apparatus such as Lyra (aerial hoop), Sling, and additional silks and trapeze levels.

Youth programs feature structured classes for children, an Aloft Youth Ensemble for advanced young aerialists, and seasonal Camp programs during school breaks and summer. The Youth Ensemble provides performance training and opportunities for dedicated young circus artists.

Professional Training Programs include a comprehensive Professional Training Program for aspiring circus artists seeking intensive instruction, and the JOLT Intensive, a focused training opportunity for advanced students. These programs prepare students for potential careers in circus performance.

Aloft maintains an active performance schedule with monthly shows that showcase both professional company members and advanced students. The organization produces original circus productions, with recent shows including “The Pieces,” their first new professional show in six years which premiered in 2024. Special events include student showcases called “Sanctuary” and “Communion,” workshops featuring guest artists, and opportunities for the community to attend performances.

The facility offers studio rental for private events and maintains a strong sense of community through the Aloft Students Facebook group. A BIPOC scholarship application is available to support diversity and inclusion in circus arts access. The organization emphasizes accessibility and fun while building technical circus skills and fostering artistic expression.