25 long years ago, Dan and Betty Butler had a dream to create the world’s premier youth circus performing arts organization. They hoped to be recognized for providing innovative programming, world-class training, and professional-level performances in a state-of-the-art circus center. Now based in St. Paul, Minnesota, over 1,500 students thrive under the big top they built. 

Dan and Betty Butler- co-founders of Circus Juventas. In 1994, the Butlers started an after-school program, then known as Circus of the Star, in a neighborhood recreation center. The initial offerings of this space were limited, only accommodating 30 students who were training on hand-made equipment. From the start, c...