City Arts Center is offering children the opportunity to experience life under the big top at State Fair Park, 3000 General Pershing, with "Hands On '08: Le Cirque d'Art."

The exhibit opened June 13 and will run through Aug. 16. With free admission and open to children of all ages, "Le Cirque d'Art" features an interactive schedule of activities, including lessons on juggling, taming lions and even perfecting acrobatic skills in a full-size circus ring.

"Campers and visitors to the summer exhibit can become a lion tamer, acrobat or even take a ride on the circus train," said Laura Sullivan, education coordinator for City Arts Center, in a press release. "You can juggle, draw circus-style posters, make masks and sculpt your own circus-inspired characters."

"Le Cirque d'Art" is not only for kids, but also designed by kids. Children enrolled in City Arts Center summer camps help create the exhibit, using the skills they learn in camp to add to the displays and activities. Those attending will have the opportunity to contribute the art they make to displays kept up for the duration of the exhibit.

To live the circus life for a day, visit City Arts Center from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. For more information, visit or call 951-0000.

"Reneé Selanders

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