wcw NOVEMBER 2023

Nik Wallenda & Circus
Arts Conservatory partner
to bring performing arts to UTC
The CAC and Wallenda will present “A Brave New Wonderland,” from Nov. 18 through Dec. 31,
behind The Mall at UTC
The Circus Arts Conservatory
has announced a new
collaboration with world-famous
“King of the High
Wire,” Nik Wallenda. The
CAC and Wallenda will present “A Brave
New Wonderland,” an extraordinary immersive
holiday experience,
from November
18 through
December 31. The
Big Top will be located
behind (just
east of) The Mall at
UTC. Wallenda will
produce, direct and
headline the show.
It is hoped that this
collaboration will
continue for many
years to come.
The CAC and Wallenda
will also play
a large role in the
UTC holiday parade
and tree lighting on
November 11. For complete “Wonderland”
show and ticket information, and the
parade/tree lighting details, visit the CAC
website at circusarts.org.
While the University Town Center/Nathan
Benderson Park area is already home
to sports, shopping and dining, there is
currently no ongoing arts presence in the
area. But that’s about to change: a new collaboration
between hometown hero and
international superstar Nik Wallenda and
the Circus Arts Conservatory (CAC) will
create a world class holiday experience
that will undoubtedly become a Southwest
Florida family holiday tradition for generations
to come.
Wallenda, renowned for his breathtaking
high-wire performances and artistic vision,
has made a name beyond daredevil for
himself as a current producer, partner, and
visionary of the iconic Big Apple Circus in
New York City. The legendary production
has been a beloved holiday tradition for
New Yorkers for 45 years, captivating millions
with its world-class entertainment
and captivating performances.
“I’ve always dreamed of sharing the
magic of my New York City productions
with my beloved hometown – and revered
circus community – of Sarasota,” said Wallenda.
“With ‘A Brave New Wonderland,’
I’m thrilled to collaborate with the Circus
Arts Conservatory to bring this dream to
life and create unforgettable holiday memories
for the community that means so
much to me.”
Nik Wallenda and the Circus Arts Conservatory will collaborate on the
immersive holiday experience, ‘A Brave New Wonderland’
“A Brave New Wonderland” will feature
a blend of circus acts, aerial performances,
and holiday storytelling, all curated under
the creative genius of Wallenda, who will
not only be producing and directing the
show but also headlining.
Sarasota, known for its rich history in
circus arts and performance, is the perfect
backdrop for this holiday spectacular, and
the CAC – as the curator of the circus arts
in our region – is the perfect partner to
present this highly-anticipated offering to
the wider community.
“When Nik came to us with his idea for a
holiday show, we were thrilled at the concept
and got to work right away to help
bring the idea to life,” said CAC Executive
Vice President/COO Jennifer Mitchell.
“Our mission is to advance the extraordinary
legacy and heritage of the circus;
Nik Wallenda holds a prominent place in
circus history. It’s entirely appropriate for
Sarasota’s ‘hometown hero’ and ‘hometown
circus’ to come together for a show
that will delight and inspire residents and
visitors alike!”
For more about Nik Wallenda, visit nikwallenda.com;
for more about the CAC,
visit circusarts.org.
Sunday, November 26, 4PM
Sarasota Opera House
Wintertide blends Spanish and Mexican carols in
Conrad Susa’s Carols and Lullabies with John Rutter’s
chilly choral cycle When Icicles Hang. Key Chorale and
The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company entwine dance
and music for this uncommon program celebrating
the blue nights of winter and the magic of the season.
Featuring Classical Guitarist
PAUL MOELLER
Presenting Sponsor:
Purchase your tickets today at:
KeyChorale.org • 941.552.8768
NOVEMBER 2023 WEST COAST WOMAN 25