Zip Zap USA supports Zip Zap Circus in Cape Town, South Africa, using circus arts to promote equality, youth development, and community upliftment.

Zip Zap USA supports programs that promote social equality, youth development, peaceful coexistence, and community upliftment through circus arts training and performances in South Africa. It raises awareness and supports the charitable and educational work of Zip Zap Circus in Cape Town.

The Work

Live Performances

Zip Zap travels all over the world! In 2016, Zip Zap performed at the John. F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and at the White House!  The first trip to the USA was to perform at the Houston Festival in 1998, and the Universoul Circus in Atlanta in 2003.     

Social Outreach

Over the years, Zip Zap has partnered with many organizations to bring programs to those in need. Doctors Without Borders, the Western Cape Department of Education, and many others have collaborated with Zip Zap to meet the needs of children who struggle with special challenges. We welcome opportunities to collaborate with other organizations in bringing the magic of circus to children who need it the most. Your donations support our work!

Testimonials

Zip Zap Circus is one of those places where magic really happens. Artscape is so proud to be associated with a company like Zip Zap Circus, where the founder members have poured their heart and soul into their passion which, in turn, literally turned and keeps on turning lives around.

- Marlene Le Roux (CEO of Artscape Theatre)

The Zip Zap Circus has a long and accomplished history as being home to some of the industry’s leading aerial performers. It has entertained audiences in Cape Town and around the world. Being founded here, 30 years ago, we can proudly say that we have a world-class art form originating in our City.

- Geordin Hill Lewis (Mayor of Cape Town)

Zip Zap Circus is more than a performance company—they are a movement. Their story, values, and commitment to social impact are as compelling as the artistry they bring to the stage. I recommend them without hesitation and encourage any venue considering them to seize the opportunity.

- Rick Dildine (Artistic Director at Children’s Theatre Company)

Zip Zap has been instrumental in making a positive impact on the lives of young people in our province for many years. Through offering youth the opportunity to be part of the exciting world of the circus arts, they not only offer our young people hope, but they also make a positive impact on our economy through creating jobs and bringing in audiences to watch these performances.

- Anroux Marais (Western cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and sport)

I have known and respected Zip Zap's work for years. Laurence and Brent reached out to me in February 2023 about their show, MOYA, and I was excited to learn it could tour to the US. We presented the work the following season. The beautiful performances and inspiring story evoking joy and humor captivated our audiences, especially the younger ones and their families. I knew the kids would be delighted by the powerful acrobatics and our older audiences would respond to the uplifting themes of triumph and resilience. 

- Mary Rose Lloyd (Artistic Director at New Victory Theatre)

For decades, through its outreach programmes and performances, Zip Zap has been inspiring budding circus performers to think outside of the box and to follow their dreams. Zip Zap is an integral part of Cape Town, particularly the city’s rich cultural fabric, adding to its diverse vibrance. Zip Zap has become so much more though, helping to bridge socio-economic gaps and empower young people.

- Alan Winde (Western Cape Premier)