Founded in 2005 by Shayna Swanson, Aloft Circus Arts creates contemporary circus that lives in the space between daring and tenderness. Drawing from the innovation of the new circus movement, the spectacle of the traditional big top, and the wit and warmth of vaudeville, our work invites audiences into moments of shared risk, joy, and recognition.

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We believe circus is a powerful language—one that speaks directly to the body and the heart. Our performances are designed as an emotional conversation, accessible to all, regardless of age, background, or familiarity with circus. Whether intimate or expansive, playful or profound, Aloft’s work centers human connection and the beauty of being present together.

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Our current repertoire includes Brave Space, a critically acclaimed, internationally touring immersive performance that creates an environment of trust, vulnerability, and collective experience; Sanctuary Cabaret, our ongoing monthly performance series in Chicago celebrating circus, variety, and experimentation; and The Pieces, a new work in development designed for outdoor performance (and adaptable for stages), premiering in summer 2026. Each project reflects our commitment to curiosity, courage, and the evolving possibilities of circus.

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Aloft’s work takes many forms—from full-length productions and immersive environments to cabaret, short-form performance, and custom-created acts for unique spaces and events. We approach each collaboration as a creative partnership, shaping performances that respond to the energy of the audience and the character of the space.