Screams of delight filled the Zip Zap Circus Dome on Saturday, 21 March as children aged between three and 10- years-old were treated to circus magic. As part of the Gigs for Kids initiative for Cape Town International Jazz Festival, over 100 children from disadvantaged communities spent the day learning the art of circus performances with lessons in acrobatics, tightrope walking, trapeze and much more.

Dressed in striking circus attire, instructors from Zip Zap surprised the crowd with a tantalizing show as the children were left speechless. A delicious meal, refreshments, popcorn and candyfloss were served to top off the magical day.

"Just seeing the excitement on the children’s faces is what we’re all about," said Laurence Esteve, co-founder of Zip Zap. "It’s important to expose youngsters not only to traditional extramural activities like sports, but the arts too where children can learn to express themselves in other creative ways. Learning the art of circus performance teaches children team work and discipline which helps them develop into thriving young adults, and this is what we want to pass on to them," commented Esteve.

As the day came to an end, the memory of their experience will be told by the children for years to come.

For more information about Zip Zap Circus School, visit their website, call 021 421 8622 or email Laurence on [email protected].

Alternatively, visit their page on Facebook.