CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM BRINGS THE BIG TOP TO LIFE WITH ITS LATEST EXHIBIT CIRCUSVILLE OPENING JANUARY 25


CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM BRINGS THE BIG TOP TO LIFE WITH ITS LATEST EXHIBIT CIRCUSVILLE OPENING JANUARY 25

The Circtacular Exhibit Will Ignite Children’s Imaginations to Pretend They Are All of the Roles Under the Circus Big Top. The Exhibit Sets the Stage for Endless Pretend Play, From the Star-of-the-Show or the Ticket Taker, Acrobat, Concessions Vendor, to Audience Member and More


CHICAGO, Ill. – Come one, come all, step right up and have a ball! Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., is thrilled to announce the remounting of its circus-themed exhibit, Circusville opening on Thursday, January 25 through September 7.


 Last featured more than a decade ago in 2012, Circusville will unleash imaginations as it places children and their families right into the magic of circus life. A dynamic exhibit, Circusville invites a range of visitor-determined experiences depending upon which entrance to the exhibit they choose - one to the center ring, show and concessions, while the other leads backstage for a behind-the-scenes experience. The exhibit will be open seven days a week: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday, via general admission to the Museum. Admissions can be purchased online.

Pretend play in a rich environment provides children the opportunity to try out various personas as a means to explore their own personalities. Circusville sets the stage for children to choose to be the star of the show through dress-up or to practice their hand at juggling and balancing on a tightrope. For another look into the whimsy of circus life, they can choose to take on vital roles including ticket taker, hot dog vendor and more.


“We are thrilled to be bringing back such a vibrant and engaging experience to the museum,” said Chicago Children’s Museum President and CEO Jennifer Farrington.


 “The goal of this exhibit is to empower kids to express themselves however that may feel best to them. Pretend play builds self-confidence and inspires conversation among families. We know Circusville will do just that and look forward to welcoming visitors to step into the center ring or backstage.”

Chicago Children’s Museum uses the circus setting to lay a foundation for children and families to engage in building narratives through play. With countless materials and a complete backdrop, Circusville encourages choice, perspective, and imagination for all.


The mission of Chicago Children's Museum is to improve children’s lives by creating a community where play and learning connect. CCM is a cultural institution dedicated to young children and the important adults in their lives. Playful experiences, including more than 15 interactive exhibits and daily programming, tap into how kids from ages 0-10 years old learn and engage to develop the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Located at Navy Pier, Chicago's number one attraction at 700 E. Grand Ave., CCM is the final stop for CTA buses #29, #65, #66 and #124. For more information, please visit www.ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org.

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