Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions2020-06-03T04:57:23-04:00
Why are the groups multi-age?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

Where activities are easier for larger students smaller ones are more encouraged to try as they see it can be done, and vice versa. A group of 5th graders may never even try to ride on a miniature bicycle until they see a second grader do it. Older students help out the younger ones and assist in keeping the group together. Many find this extra responsibility rewarding. Finally, some of the stations just naturally work better with students of various sizes.

Where can we purchase some of the equipment used in the projects?2020-02-07T21:43:42-05:00

Some of the very same equipment we use in our projects is for sale at Semcycle.com

What should the students wear?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

Dress as they would for gym class. Gym shoes are recommended and must be worn for unicycling and tightwire. Their performing outfits will be worn over their clothes.

What have other schools done that have made the program run exceptionally well?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

The project really depends on the volunteers. Having enough volunteers who attend the orientation meeting and show up on time on the project day makes all the difference.

What do you do along the route?2018-06-05T02:04:45-04:00

Our impromptu performances are crowd favorites. We make sure not to interrupt the flow of the parade.

What are the requirements for volunteer adults?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

Nothing but common sense. Detailed instructions are given beforehand, and help is available at any time during the program.

What about the little kindergarten students?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

Kindergarten students have a blast going through the circuit in the morning and trying new toys every few minutes. They do get pretty tired from the morning activities and after lunch they get to rest and some even take a nap before they rehearse their animal or clown acts.

What about physically challenged students?2020-02-07T21:41:13-05:00

Everyone participates to the best of their ability. Individual adjustments are made so that all students are fully involved.

Isn’t all this dangerous ?2017-11-17T09:29:24-05:00

While the equipment may be hazardous if used unsupervised, we feel the project is no more dangerous than any other physical activity. There are 2 adults supervising every 10 students at all times plus 2 additional safety inspectors roaming around the entire project. All adult helpers receive detailed safety instructions on the day before the project

Is there a problem if we have too many volunteers?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

No. The more the merrier. We are set up to assign extra volunteers to double up on the most strenuous positions.

Is it possible to have a break for refreshments?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

There is a bathroom break / refreshment station built into the morning circuit. Some schools set up drinks and snacks here, others just have the students go to the drinking fountains.

I’m a volunteer. Can I be the group leader of the group that has my child in it?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

At the orientation meeting we can accommodate most special requests, within reason. We have students lists available so you can find out which group number your child is in, and you can let us know which group you’d like to (or not like to) lead.

How much space do you need?2018-06-05T01:38:32-04:00

We’ll work with what’s available. Ideally, enough room for all your participants to move around in groups of 10 – 12.

How much space do you need?2018-06-05T01:55:16-04:00

Ideally, at least 20′ by 30 ‘ of level hard surface. Our show can adapt to play in most conditions.

How much space do you need?2018-06-05T01:59:04-04:00

We’ll work with what’s available. Ideally, a gymnasium floor with the audience in the bleachers.

How many Cirque Amongus Project Managers will run the project?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

Typically we have 2 project managers for projects of up to 300 students, 3 for projects of up to 500 students, 4 for projects of up to 700 students, etc.

How can the school capitalize on the excitement leading up to a circus day?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

Schools can integrate Circus themes in the curriculum and decorate the school with circus art. Here are some suggestions on curriculum resources.

How can half day kindergarten students participate?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

This is left up to the school. Some schools invite all kindergarten students to stay the entire day. Others let the AM students go through the circuits and let the PM students be the animal acts in the show.

Does the show carry a message?2018-06-05T01:57:10-04:00

Several. We like to teach about cooperation and perseverance. We can also incorporate any message you like. We have revolved shows around many messages over the years, from no to drugs to bullying and traffic safety. One of our most popular messages is ‘what makes you a member of a great audience – how to behave at a performance’

Do you use audience volunteers in the show?2018-06-05T01:56:04-04:00

Yes. We usually present one or two acts that involve audience participation.

Do you recommend me leading the group that has my child in it?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

That’s totally up to you. In our experience, we have seen more parents who afterwards wish they had not. A good number of parents who have requested to be in a group with their child specifically request to lead a group without their child in a subsequent project.

Can you incorporate a custom message?2018-06-05T02:00:05-04:00

Yes. We can write any custom message into the presentation.

Can we ride along on your cycles?2018-06-05T02:02:58-04:00

Yes. Our party cycles will each carry up to 6 passengers.

Can the adults be a part of the show?2017-11-17T09:33:36-05:00

Yes – but only in assisting the student stars during their performance.

Can team members with physical handicaps participate?2018-06-05T01:39:23-04:00

Yes. Custom adjustments are made so that all team members participate to the best of their abilities.

Can advertising banners be attached to your vehicles?2018-06-05T02:01:45-04:00

Yes. Our vehicles are big attention-getters with ample room for ad banners.