For the first time, the Big Top tent will be making its debut arrival in Trenton, NJ
Trenton Circus Squad Joins Forces with Rescue Mission of Trenton and WorkWell Partnership to Aid Community Reentry
Trenton Circus Squad is thrilled to announce, “Step Right Up!”, a milestone event celebrating the Big Top Tent in Trenton for the first time with inspiring performances by talented Squad Members, alumni and coaches. Additionally, the event will be marking a decade of uplifting youth and communities through the power of circus arts. The celebration will take place on Thursday, May 8, at 7PM at CURE Arena Lot 4 (645 Broad Street, Trenton, NJ).
Over the past ten years, Trenton Circus Squad has empowered young people through high-energy performances, confidence-building workshops, and transformative community engagement. Now, as the Big Top Tent rises in the heart of Trenton, it stands as a powerful symbol of what this community has built together. “Step Right Up” is more than a celebration—it’s a testament to the Squad’s impact, bringing the community for an unforgettable evening of breathtaking performances and inspiring stories. The tent rising in the middle of Trenton is a rare and powerful sight—a clear reflection of what’s possible when a community invests in its young people.
“We are incredibly proud of the past decade’s work in empowering young people,” said Thomas von Oehsen, Executive Director of Trenton Circus Squad. “Being able to provide programs and a safe place for kids to come after school means the world. Every day we encourage the squad members to take big leaps in life and we cannot wait to see the program to continue to grow in the years to come.”
The Trenton Circus Squad, in addition to supporting the youth community, is partnering with the Rescue Mission of Trenton—a shelter providing food, housing, recovery counseling, and life-changing opportunities—and WorkWell Partnership, which empowers individuals by teaching work and life skills within a supportive community. Participants from both organizations will help raise the Big Top Tent for performances and school camps. Through this inspiring event, the Trenton Circus Squad aims to create a positive environment that supports the successful reentry of individuals into the local community.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Trenton Circus Squad in this incredible initiative,” said Charles Wolfe, Chief of Behavioral Health of Rescue Mission of Trenton. “Providing our participants with an opportunity to be part of such a vibrant and uplifting event not only gives them a chance to contribute but also reinforces the power of community, growth, and second chances.”
“This collaboration represents everything we stand for—transformation, support, and empowerment,” said Jeannette Rizk, Executive Director of WorkWell Partnership. “We are excited to see our participants embrace this opportunity, learning valuable skills and experiencing the joy of working together to bring something truly special to the community.”
At the heart of the celebration, The Squad’s longtime partner—the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK) — will play a special role, with their talented students and graduates preparing and serving a delicious meal before the evening’s performance. TASK has been an integral part of the ten-year journey from the very beginning, generously providing hot dinners to The Squad every weeknight without fail. Their unwavering support is more than just about food—it’s a powerful reminder of the strength of the Trenton community.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone with Trenton Circus Squad,” said Paul Jensen, Chief Operating Officer of Trenton Area Soup Kitchen. “This isn’t just a celebration for the Squad—it’s a celebration for all of Trenton. Their success is our success, and it’s an example of what’s possible when we invest in each other.”
As Trenton Circus Squad celebrates this monumental achievement, the entire community should join for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, joy, and creativity. “Step Right Up!” promises to be an event filled with thrilling performances, heartwarming stories, and a chance to witness the incredible talent of the youth and alumni who have made this journey possible. The world of circus arts serves as a catalyst for positive youth development and will continue to uplift and empower future generations.
To purchase tickets or support The Trenton Circus Squad, please visit https://trentoncircussquad.org/.
About Trenton Circus Squad
Trenton Circus Squad’s mission is to inspire young people to take big leaps in life. Through participation in free after-school, summer, and traveling circus programs, Squad Members achieve more than they thought was possible – in school, at work and in life. Our programs are anchored in social and emotional development and leadership skills. We are focused on preparing young people to further their skills, education and
explore employment pathways and offer training for Squad Members to become Jr. Coaches. We are proud that all five of our circus coaches are graduates of our Jr. Coach Development Program.
Learn more about our work and incredible impact at trentoncircussquad.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.