I am writing about my concern for the future of the circus arts in Sarasota and beyond.
I witnessed Dolly Jacobs receive the prestigious Silver Clown honor, which was awarded by Prince Albert of Monaco, during the International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo.
She had nearly 3,000 lovers of the circus arts on their feet applauding her.
It is my sincere belief that the Circus Arts Conservatory's board of directors has done the unthinkable.
Its recent, sudden termination of Ms. Jacobs, who co-founded the conservatory, from her position on the board has created a negative worldwide reaction that could keep both artists and patrons from further participation.
Widely known as the “Queen of the Air,” Dolly Jacobs is a world-renowned artist, teacher and
impresario who has earned numerous prestigious awards and accolades, including induction into the Circus Ring of Fame at St. Armands Circle.
Now that the board has already done the unthinkable, it should at least try to smooth things over.
Here are some suggestions:
- Prominently feature thekeynote speech that Ms. Jacobs gave during the Circus Historical Society’s June 2026 convention.
- Keep in mind that the society is currently scheduled to hold its November 2027 convention in Sarasota.
- Call for the city of Sarasota declare 2027 as “Celebrate Dolly Jacobs Year."
- Prepare several events to honor Ms. Jacobs over the next year.
- Establish a new award in Ms. Jacobs' name to recognize those who dedicate themselves to teaching the circus arts in Sarasota.
- Reinstate her to the Circus Arts Conservatory board.
Dolly Jacobs is a local treasure.
Paul Binder, Bradenton
Binder is the founder of the Big Apple Circus.
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This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Dolly Jacobs was done wrong. Here's how to make things right. | Letter
