What Folks Are Saying

The Circus Kids Create

“Like all great teachers, Kevin, you teach by example: by bringing a freshness, excitement, inventiveness, and spirit of joy to your work. And the memory of that, even on a cold winter’s day, brought some warmth to us all.”  —Liz Rosenberg, parent, NY

“Mr. O’Keefe has accomplished the impossible. He asked everyone to reach and just do their individual best—and it happened. Everyone felt good about what they could do. A self esteem builder for everyone involved—parents, administrators, teachers, and most importantly, the kids.”  —Christine Schmutz, 2nd grade teacher, NJ

“The Circus was an exceptional experience for the entire school. It provided students with what traditional learning often does not, namely a real purpose for learning.  It was the ultimate in ‘integrated’ learning.”  —Ann Johnson, 5th grade teacher, NJ

“These skills were carried out along with the traditional 3 R’s which were expertly tailored to the Circus Theme.... What modestly presented itself as a fun learning experience turned out to be a far more enhancing, educational submersion.”  —Mary Gordon, parent, NJ

“Circus Minimus was the most fun I had in all my years of school.”  —Edward Ruiz, student, NJ

“Thanks for every thing you bring to us in such a wonderful package. Every year I’m able to add to my collection of fond memories. Smile and know that it’s what you bring to us that keeps us coming back”  —Renee Hoover, teacher, NY

“The past two weeks have been an experience that I will never forget.”  —Branwyn Wainwright, student, NY

“I had the greatest time at Circus Minimus. It was the best summer camp I’ve ever been to.”  —Arnold Riley, student, NY

“You were brave to take on my class and you did a wonderful job with them. I know it will be in their memories forever. You are a very patient man and have a gift for working with children.”  —Pat O’Shea, teacher , NY

“The program’s variety was wonderful and very funny. Amazing what you do in two weeks!”  —Emily McCully, author, NYC

“Our heartfelt thanks for another magical summer of Circus Minimus. It is always a delight to see the final performance and I especially enjoyed seeing the process and the progress throughout the two weeks.”  —Catherine Schwoefferman, parent, NY

“It was a marvelous experience for my grandkids and they hope to do it again next year. Kevin was truly amazing in his ability to integrate these out-of-towners with the group and to work with their talents and quirks.”  —Jane Sobel, grandparent, VT

“Children from the Bennington area dazzled audiences as they swung, twirled, and flipped their way into the new year.”  —Bennington Banner, VT

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The One-Man Circus in-a-Suitcase


“How can I convey the enormous joy you spread among our children? I can’t recall when I last saw so many beaming faces lighting up our hall! Everyone—students and teachers alike—have been praising your wonderful show and style.”  —Susie Schub, principal, Morristown, NJ

“Your One-Man show was very clever and creative. The audience of students and teachers thoroughly enjoyed your performance.”  —Stanley Seidman, principal, NYC

“This was the second time I saw The One-Man Circus in-a-Suitcase and I think it is even funnier.”  —Rich Jackman, student, NY

“Thank you so much for the show at our school. The children loved it!”  —Randy Scott, teacher, NJ

“Thanks again for a great show!”  —Cathy Bradley, administrator, RI

“Kevin did an extraordinary job. His professionalism, talent and patience were amazing.”  —Jude Del Precore, administrator, NJ

“In a one hour period, Mr. O’Keefe and his cast of incredible characters brought us through a marvelous story about a young man who wants to run away to the circus. There was not a moment’s lag throughout the show. Mr. O’Keefe has the energy of a roomful of five year-olds. Each of our 350 children and 60 adults laughed, applauded and had a roaring good time. My cheeks hurt for a few hours after the performance. This is an exquisitely tight and well-developed show that I would recommend for any group. Mr. O’Keefe is a natural. I will never forget this experience, and our kids are still talking about it.”  —Jackie Sinatra, principal, Marbletown Elementary School, Stone Ridge, NY

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Circus Musicus


“I believe that Circus Musicus provided a remarkable residency, one that will not be forgotten for the rest of their lives.”  —Felicity Kendall, administrator, CT

“Circus Musicus energized the school with a creativity and enthusiasm never before experienced. If a picture is worth a thousand words then the value in words of the video is immeasurable.”  —Richard Bitondo, principal, NJ

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Circus Poeticus


“Thanks again for giving the students something they will always remember. It was wonderful!”  —Helen Yocum, PTO president, NJ

“Thank you, Kevin for plunging into this venture with such enthusiasm. You and BJ possess a unique lust for life which is contagious.”  —Susie Schub, principal, NJ

“Kudos to Circus Poeticus. To watch them work together putting heart and mind, body and soul into their routine was pure magic. Each and every one of them was a shining star and their involvement in the circus was an experience they will always cherish.”  —Joyce Meyer, 2nd grade teacher, NJ

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Circus Around the World


“Every year it amazes me even more to see what you can accomplish with our students in two short weeks. Our students traveled around the world and never left the building!”  —Diane Myers, teacher, NY

“I want to thank you for all you did to bring Kevin O’Keefe and Circus Minimus to the third grade. It was a joy to watch the children’s faces and to see their obvious delight in their accomplishments. Monica had gotten to know Mr. O’Keefe during his first two visits to our school. We were especially excited about the long-awaited chance for the children to work with him. Expectations were high and they were exceeded! He is indeed a gifted instructor. Thank you again for this wonderful experience for Monica and the third grade.”  —Parent, Bronxville, NY

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The Peace Circus


“Oh Kevin! You are my hero. Thank you for teaching me another way to give kids opportunities to learn the most important things they need to know. We changed a few lives and that is what it is all about! Gracias Señor, and may you always have what you need to create your work.”  —Beth Corwin, teacher, NH

“It has been wonderful, don’t leave! I loved the circus. It helped bring the school closer together. I will miss working with you. Maybe another year? Yeah!”  —John Bass, teacher, NH

“It has been an incredible, wonderful, thrilling, experience to have you come! Thank you for bring the magic of circus to the Symonds School. The children and the staff will never forget what you have given us!”  —Alice Webb, teacher, NH

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The Afterschool Program


“Our teacher Shira Kline was superb! The children loved and respected her. She repeatedly came up with funny, cute, and skillful programs for the kids.”  —Erin O’Connor, administrator, NYC

“The best thing about the program was the caring and patient instructor and the show he directed at the end. Thank you, Matt.”  —Irene Mantel, administrator, NYC

“Thank you for the program that you provided to our school. The students had a good time and it was a pleasure having Andy as the teacher. He worked very hard and was well-liked by all the students.”  —Janice Movson, administrator, NYC

“Circus Minimus was able to help each student develop new proficiency, discipline and self-confidence. The final presentation was exciting, professional, and very well-received. CM added greatly to Winston’s program this year.”  —Virginia Montgomery, principal, NYC

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Ringmasters


“I can’t praise Nathan or the program enough. You guys should just keep doing what you're doing.”  —Jessica Wood, parent, VT

“You sent us a gem in Jeff. He was everything you promised and more. His ability to connect with the students no matter what their ages or ability enabled them to grow and learn about physical expression. Jeff's sensitivity to the needs of the program, the staff, the teachers, and the students, enabled him to enhance the workshop with his considerable teaching skills and become one with the teachers and staff. We can't wait to have him back!”  —Barbara Kline, producer, LA

“Once again Circus Minimus was a great success! Sean was wonderful with the kids and they all had a great time. Thanks again for a wonderful program and we look forward to working with you in the future.”  —Georgeanne Bottjer, educator, NY

“Nathan was a great leader. My daughter was happy to go to camp every day and couldn't wait to show me what she learned.”  —Angie Griffin, parent,VT

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CircusYoga

“This program was beyond excellent. There was a good balance of structure and spontaneity, it was very affirming, loving. Kevin and Erin are a perfect complement for each other as a team. They make you feel like you can do anything.” —Chris Hottle, Provincetown, MA

“I enjoyed the openness of this program. After a few classes it felt like we were one big family, full of wholeness, love, and support. I felt like everyone was able to open up and be themselves and even discover more about themselves.” —Karen Ruoti, Middletown, NY

“I liked how we formed a community in only five days. I enjoyed being with my children in a new way, learning new things, new concepts for yoga and living as a group together.”

“Kevin and Erin walk their ‘talk.’ In fact their program de-emphasizes talking and intellectualizing. It’s a living, breathing, moving embodiment of yoga practice.” —Lisa Caroselli, Greenbrook, NJ

“This was a fun, safe place to try new things. It was great yoga and very accessible.” —Amy Krulak, Baltimore, MD

“I truly enjoyed the play, play and more play! I really enjoyed developing relationships with the children, the adults, and the staff. I loved the environment of imagination and creativity and the safety I felt which gave me permission to take risks.”

“Erin and Kevin are extremely generous with their time and attention beyond the program. Their interaction with the participants continues beyond their role of leaders. They genuinely offer their friendship and support.”

“Kevin and Erin encourage playfulness and creativity in a loving and accepting forum – everyone is a winner in this game of joyful community and abundance.” —Judi Shila, Lutz, FL

“CircusYoga was definitely one of the best thing that I did this summer. It was a life changing event.” —Heather Mormile, NY

“The letter in my head about how genuine, loving, and wonderful you, Kevin and you team was is so long by now. I did want you to know I feel so different as a parent. I seem to have turned a corner under your juggling, singing, soul searching and laughter. Here is the wonderful thing my daughter said to me on her 6th Birthday while practicing Push Sticks and doing summersaults one after each other without dropping the sticks: ‘Mom, we got into a situation and it didn't turn into a problem!’ Awesome! We are still flying and styling all over our house.” —Andes Hruby, Salisbury, CT

“I loved the inclusion, joy, laughter and encouragement and the ability to incorporate all ages and stages. Kevin and Erin were energetic, committed, involved and loving.” —Ellen Goldstein, Potomac, MD

“I loved the interaction of kids with parents especially exercises where parents and kids exchanged support. Even my fourteen year old played with us!” —Deborah Yeomans, Orchard Park, NY

“This was a well organized and brilliant program that was and I especially loved that it was family oriented.” —Lori Yelensky, Ithaca, NY

“I loved the variety and pace of the activities in CY. It was just right. Erin and Kevin worked so well together and had excellent control of the group especially with so many kids.” —Allison Hopper, Collegeville, PA

“My favorite things were the value of community, openness and the incredible sense of free fun.” —Marg Dickinson, Ashland, NB, Canada

“Erin and Kevin were fantastic. There were so many family bonding activities and there was lots of room for expression and creativity within the activities.” —Maureen Palmer, Weston, MA


“I also wanted to thank everyone for making the experience so incredible.  We feel so fortunate to have met and shared this with such a great group of people.  And of course, a great big THANK YOU to Kevin and Erin - You guys really made this an amazing experience we'll always remember!”  —Kathy Dunn, NYC

“CircusYoga changed my life! It renewed my desire to be creative and play with my kid.” —Bert Bland, Ithaca, NY

“Well. . . it was a thrill a minute as the captivating blend of yoga, dance, discovery, imagination and circus skill unfolded before us.”  —Pam Gaither, Boston, MA

“The CircusYoga program inspired me to find a yoga class in my hometown where my kids and I can do yoga together every week.”  —Wendy Rickard, Princeton, NJ

“I learned a lot of FUN yoga!”  —Naima (age 9)

“I truly believe it was one of the most meaningful, valuable experiences I've had with my daughter.”  —Brette Logan, New Haven, CT

“As my son said every day, ‘This is the best birthday present ever!’”  —Patti, Exeter, NH

“When I showed up I was closed as a clam. I have a lot of responsibility in my life and after a few months times it shortens me by a few inches. The goofy games, the laughter and the 'it's OK to be who you are' opened me up like a can opener to a can. Being open and lighthearted feels wonderful and it's why I keep coming back time and again.”  —David Ellner, Westfield, NJ

“It made me laugh until I cried! Erin and Kevin are infectious! CircusYoga made me open and want to learn again in a supportive atmosphere.”  —Kim Ellner, Yoga teacher, Westfield, NJ

“Erin and Kevin did an outstanding job. They are the reason we came back. They have a unique way of interaction with the kids, which allowed the children to express themselves, yet stick within limits.”  —Janet Melcher, 4th grade teacher, PA

“What I liked most about the program was meeting new people and really interacting with them. I loved the team effort especially in the family interactions. Learning the circus skills was fun and fabulous. Having my 3 children watch me humbly learn new things, I thought, was a terrific experience for my children. There were great ideas about family communication. Erin and Kevin were amazing! Their connection with the whole tribe of about 40 of us was right on!”  —Kathy Zadrozny, Huntington Station, NY

“I loved that we could all do this together as a family. All the activities together helped bond us in a fun way. Kevin and Erin are skilled, attuned and lively leaders with awesome skills with kids as well. They created a safe and loving environment.”  —Patricia Butler, Charlotte, NC

“Erin and Kevin are creative, knowledgeable and sincere. They keep the kids and parents focused.”  —Charles Butler, Charlotte, NC

“This was a great opportunity for working with out kids in a really fun context. Erin and Kevin O'Keefe are delightful teachers. They have many special skills and work well with specific challenges of having adults and kids in the same program.”  —Lucjan Shila, Lutz, FL

“CircusYoga exceeded our expectations! We made connections with other families, made new friends, lightened up and learned how to play and relate to our children in new ways. Kevin and Erin were so skillful in creating a fun, creative, playful environment as well as setting an example on how to play with the children, facilitate group dynamics cooperatively and it was all done with such JOY!”  —Judi Shila, Lutz, FL

“What I gained for CircusYoga Workshop: Besides the pure fun of pushing the limits of play and creativity, there was the unbelievable experience of connecting with new people in the most intimate of ways... upside down, butt to butt, high over your head as you "fly" them or they "fly" you!  My personal physical challenge was thrilling as was the emotional challenge (can I trust this person to hold me, can I risk failing in front of others.. failing to myself??) And finally, from Kevin and Erin’s respectful direction and endless encouragement, I hopefully have learned better how to lead all manner of sizes, shapes, abilities, and temperaments into positive & growth filled experiences.”  —Faith Bieler, Waterbury Center, VT

“These two artists are absolutely brilliant  -- they are some of the best teachers I've ever hired -- professional, intelligent, kind, curious and really fun.”  —Emily Kane, director, Juneau Fine Arts Camp, Juneau, Alaska

“Thank you so much for the CircusYoga workshop that I attended with my Jakey-boy! It was really, really, really wonderful. The playfulness and light-heartedness combined with the deep connection that you both fostered so powerfully and in such a skillful way was so very effective in creating a safe yet energetic and fun space for us all to play and work!”  —Joanne Myrup, Anusara Yoga Instructor, Taos, NM

“Thank you again! The series of gifts that followed throughout the weekend was a wonderful shower. CircusYoga, your baby, is a wonderful thing.”  —Angie Fie, educator, Los Angeles, CA

“We were  thrilled to be a part of your fantabulousamazingwonderfuldashingenergeticandhappy world!” —Andes Hruby, Salisbury, CT

“I truly believe it was one of the most meaningful, valuable experiences I’ve had with my daughter.”  —Brette Logan, parent, New Haven, CT


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