Welcome to the West

I love the Valley Junction neighborhood. It’s a diverse and eclectic community with a rich history that is so inspiring to be a part of. Cirque Wonderland is located just South of the Tracks next to Fox Brewing in the warehouse area of the Railroad District. Just 2 miles off of I235, this is a fantastic central location less than a 20-minute drive from anywhere in the metro and right off the bike trails! I just love being a part of a community of other small/local businesses, and the connections I’ve made as a result of that have been invaluable. 

Last year Cirque Wonderland Studios launched Not Your Average Aerialists, an introduction to aerial series designed specifically for unique adult bodies; older bodies, larger bodies, bodies with disabilities or chronic illness, etc. Seeing how circus can impact peoples’ lives, self confidence, and mental health, we’ve expanded our programing and in 2022 have launched our Social Circus! Social Circus uses circus as a medium for social justice and outreach. We are working to bring free circus classes to underserved communities and schools. We are starting by partnering with the WDM Parks and Rec Department to bring free circus classes to a low-income neighborhood this summer. Circus in the Park will provide FREE circus classes at Wilson Park on Sunday mornings from 10:30 AM to Noon from June- through August. 

Authenticity. Cirque Wonderland Studios isn’t just a business, we’re a community. We set and conquer goals together. We fail together. We encourage one-another. We laugh and cry together. We empower each other. You cannot do that through disingenuity. 

I’m a big outdoor recreation enthusiast; Biking, hiking, kayaking, you name it, and just around the corner from Valley Junction you’ll find Blue Heron Lake at Raccoon River Park, Browns Woods Forest Preserve, and Walnut Woods State Park. In one afternoon, I can hit up a circus class, shop and dine in Valley Junction, and hike in one of the most diverse ecosystems in the state. I appreciate that the WDM community values balance and that I can experience nightlife, culture, fine foods, boutique shopping, and nature all within a few mile radius in one city. 

The Night Circus is a GREAT fictional book about a mystical traveling circus that randomly appears and disappears and is only open at night. It was recommended by my studio manager, Kelsey Seat, but I love this book as well.

One of my coaches, Amanda Marie, said she came across the podcast `Tame the Circus Brain with Chelsea Perry’ while searching “circus”. It’s not actually about circus, but it’s kind of a motivational, life perspective type podcast and they are short. She said they relate not only to work and life but also to her aerial journey.

Cirque Wonderland Entertainment is the professional performance and production side of things. Along with Aerialists, Acrobatics and other typical circus acts we also bring a variety of unique entertainment to galas, fundraisers, fairs, festivals, and other public and private events around the Midwest. Human Statues, Fire Dancers, Living Tables, Stilt Walkers, Glow Flow, Prop-manipulation, Showgirls, and any other quirky strolling entertainment you can think of! We love a good theme and chance to let our creative visions go!