Introducing Zip Zap USA
Supporting Zip Zap Circus in Cape Town, South Africa, to change lives through the transformative power of circus arts - Your support makes it possible!
Impacting Youth
Since 1992, Zip Zap has changed the lives of young people, regardless of their ability to pay. A career in the circus is not the goal of social circus programs (although many Zip Zap kids have gone on to perform as professionals around the world!).
Rather, the objective of social circus is to increase self-awareness, individuality, collective unity, and self-discipline to transform the vision and capabilities of at-risk youth.
(2024 figures)
Our Story
Zip Zap USA continues the magic that began in Cape Town, South Africa, by creating awareness, managing fundraising, and supporting projects of Zip Zap South Africa.
A very special circus began in Cape Town, South Africa, in 1992. At that time, South Africa’s first democratic elections were still several years away, and the country was in turmoil, but international circus performer Brent van Rensburg felt called to return to his homeland. At the very moment when many people were leaving, Brent and his wife Laurence (who was also his trapeze partner!) moved to Cape Town. They were determined to help make Nelson Mandela’s dream of a rainbow nation into a reality. Together, they launched a project that would help create a global movement: circus for social transformation.
Zip Zap’s youth and outreach programs are offered free to all children.
These programs are funded through a combination of public performances, fundraising events, grants and donation from individuals, foundations and corporations.
Zip Zap’s Programs Pyramid
Zip Zap Offers 10 Outreach and Youth Programmes
Outreach
Reach
Through one onsite workshop or community roadshow at a time, we reveal the endless magic and career possibilities of circus arts to children and youth from all communities.
Youth
Ukwanda
Introducing youth aged 12–17 to the world of circus arts through foundational skills across all circus disciplines.
Ubuntu
Supporting children and youth living with HIV through circus skills, joyful play, and connection that build resilience and treatment adherence.
Khula Nathi
Preparing young children for grade R by building physical, social, and cognitive skills through a structured social circus programme.
The Hood
A neighbourhood-based circus programme where children and youth feel safe, supported, and confident while developing circus and performing skills.
Zappers
A skills-focused programme transforming talented Zip Zap participants into high-performing circus artists, developing skills, confidence, and creating opportunities.
Vuka
A fun, safe space where chronically ill children with special needs grow socially, physically, and emotionally using circus arts as a tool.
Gugs Rising
Gugs Rising is Zip Zap’s new circus and performing arts programme at Bonga Primary in Gugulethu, created specifically for school-going children.
Isiseko
Introducing children aged 7–11 to the world of circus arts through fun, foundational skills across all circus disciplines.
Dare2Dream
A full-time vocational training programme empowering youth 18+ with circus and life skills, building confidence, resilience, and pathways to careers in the performing arts.
Donate today to help Zip Zap continue to offer these programs free of charge
Testimonials
“In 2011, along with 30 Saltimbanco artists and employees, I had the privelege of visiting Zip Zap. It was a wonderful opportunity for us to experience firsthand the contagious joy, enthusiasm and hope shared by all those who come in contact with Zip Zap programs.
We at Cirque du Soleil salute Zip Zap’s remarkable social involvement and commitment to its community. Zip Zap is the living proof that actions speak louder than words and that the sky is the limit when we all come together! May your activities continue to inspire!”
— Daniel Lamarre, Former CEO Cirque du Soleil
“Zip Zap taught me circus skills, but also self-respect and how to respect other people.”
— Zip Zap Beneficiary
“Zip Zap has made a change in me. Through Zip Zap, I believe I can also make a change to the next generation.”
— Zip Zap Beneficiary
The Zip Zap USA Directors
We have a dedicated and diverse board of directors guiding our mission and initiatives. Comprised of accomplished professionals from various backgrounds, our board members bring a wealth of expertise and passion to the organization.
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Alan Elliot Merschen
Director
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Elias Popa
Treasurer
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Shannon Xhola
President
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Beth Binns Schoellkopf
Secretary
Support Zip Zap by booking MOYA, our professional company, for your next event!
These performers have spent years honing their circus techniques and skills, whilst working their way through the various levels of Zip Zap's programs. Contact us at events@zip-zap.org
Interested in supporting Zip Zap from the USA?
Here are some ways to get involved:
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Partner with us
Join our esteemed list of partners, including the European Union via Erasmus+, Kindermissionswerk, the French embassy, the Western Cape Department of Education, and many governmental organizations around the world. Let’s create circus magic together!
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Attend a Performance
In 2024 our professional company presented MOYA at The Children's Theatre in Minneapolis and in April 2025 at the New Victory Theater in New York. We look forward to coming back!
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Make a Donation
Children never pay to participate in programs! Your donation, small or large, will make a real difference to a child AND is tax-deductible! Help us make circus magic happen for more children.
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