About this episode
The episode discusses the uncertain future of Circus Smirkus amid financial challenges and safety concerns, along with efforts to make community theater accessible for actors with disabilities.
Circus Smirkus has been training young performers for four decades. But with financial challenges and an aerial accident last summer, the future of the touring youth circus is uncertain. The youth circus cancelled its signature Big Top Tour this summer. Reporter Mary Ann Lickteig of Seven Days explains what that means for the organization’s finances. We’ll also talk through some parents’ discontent over Smirkus leadership and safety protocol. Then: a theater group in Brattleboro has a special mission. They help actors with disabilities claim the stage. Now, they’ve created a guidebook so others can follow their blueprint. They want community theater to be accessible – and enjoyable – to everyone.
People in this episode
Guest: Mary Ann Lickteig
Topics covered
- Circus
- youth performance
- financial challenges
- theater accessibility
- community engagement
Keywords
- Circus Smirkus
- youth circus
- financial challenges
- theater group
- accessibility
- Brattleboro
- safety protocol
- guidebook
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Circus Smirkus, Seven Days
Places: Brattleboro
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