About

Who We Are

Founded in 2026 by Cirque Wonderland Studios, the Heartland Circus Arts Foundation was created to expand access to the circus arts across Central Iowa and beyond. 

We believe circus arts have the power to transform lives. Through movement, creativity, and challenge, participants build confidence, resilience, strength, self-expression, and meaningful community connections.

Our goal is simple: make high-quality, safe circus arts education accessible to more people.

501(c)(3)

Heartland Circus arts Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to circus arts, movement education, and creative expression for all members of our community. Through scholarships, outreach programs, inclusive classes, and community partnerships, we work to remove barriers and create opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the transformative power of circus arts.

As a nonprofit organization, support from donors, sponsors, grants, and community partners helps make our mission possible.

Our Values

Accessibility
We believe circus is for everyone. We work to remove barriers and create opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds, abilities, and experience levels.

Safety
We believe every participant deserves access to circus arts in an environment that prioritizes proper training, professional instruction, quality equipment, and a culture of care.

Creativity
We celebrate imagination, play, artistic expression, and lifelong learning.

Community
We believe in lifting each other up, literally and figuratively, through connection, encouragement, and shared experiences.

Empowerment
Circus builds confidence, resilience, self-expression, and joy.

Why We Started 

For years, Cirque Wonderland Studios has helped introduce thousands of people to circus and aerial arts while leading the way in Iowa with inclusive practices, community engagement, and high safety standards.

Along the way, we saw a recurring challenge.

Aerial and circus arts require specialized equipment, trained instructors, proper rigging, and dedicated facilities. These elements are essential for creating a safe and supportive learning environment, but they can also make participation financially out of reach for many individuals and families.

The Heartland Circus Arts Foundation was created to help bridge that gap. Providing access to quality circus education without compromising safety.

Our Approach

We believe in using art to support art.

Through performances, fundraising events, community partnerships, and donor support, we raise resources that help expand access to circus arts education and experiences.

Our work includes:

Flight Fund Scholarships
Providing tuition assistance for classes, camps, workshops, and educational programs.

Community Outreach
Bringing accessible circus experiences (including juggling, balancing arts, creative movement, and other introductory circus skills) to schools, community organizations, and public events.

Performances for Purpose
Using shows and special events not only to raise funds but also to inspire audiences and introduce new communities to the possibilities of circus arts.

Circus in the Park
Creating opportunities for the public to experience circus arts in welcoming and accessible community spaces.

Who We Serve

We serve individuals of all ages, backgrounds, abilities, and experience levels who want to explore the circus arts.

Whether someone dreams of flying on aerial silks, learning to juggle, building confidence through movement, or discovering a new creative outlet, we believe there should be a pathway for them to participate.

The Heartland Circus Arts Foundation is based in West Des Moines and serves participants from throughout the Greater Des Moines area and beyond, including West Des Moines, Des Moines, Windsor Heights, Clive, Urbandale, Waukee, Johnston, Ankeny, and surrounding communities.