Sad news for Circus Sarasota fans, although probably not all that surprising: The annual Big Top extravaganza will not take place this year as originally planned to starting next month, due to Covid-19.

 In a press release this morning, the nonprofit announced that, “Due to the current virus numbers as well as financial considerations (primarily the fiscal challenges of operating at a reduced audience capacity), the Circus Arts Conservatory has made the difficult decision to cancel its 2021 Big Top season, including Circus Sarasota 2021, its Gala, and Cirque des Voix.”

 Not only will circus lovers miss the February and March performances under the tent usually set up near UTC and Nathan Benderson Park, as well as the other events, but the cancellations will have “a significant impact on the nonprofit arts organization's bottom line,” according to the release. The gala, which had been set to take place both in-person and online Jan. 29, is the organization’s biggest fund raiser.

 The announcement also stressed that “the CAC has been and is continuing to work to find new ways to engage with the community and keep the circus arts vibrant. Additionally, numerous programs are ongoing, including the Sailor Circus youth program and two school magnet programs, the circus science program for area students, silks training and small-group team-building experiences, and more. Stringent protocols are in place to keep participants of all CAC programs safe.”

Sailor Circus performances had taken place over the recent holiday season.

To learn more about those experiences, and to find out how you can still participate, visit circusarts.org.