The Circus Arts Conservatory (CAC), which is currently offering live and virtual programming, recently received grants of $10,000 each from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and Gulf Coast Community Foundation to pay for the addition of a state-of-the-art air purifying ionization system to the HVAC system in the Sailor Circus Arena. The system will reduce airborne particles, kill pathogens (including Covid-19), neutralize odors, and create a more environmentally-friendly atmosphere while also reducing energy use and associated costs. The organization also received two $5,000 grants—one for sanitation supplies, the other for personal protective equipment (PPE)—through Manatee County CARES Act funding.

The CAC, which is currently offering a digital performance option for those who don't feel comfortable attending a live show or who live out of town, has adopted stringent Covid-19 mitigation protocols, including a mask requirement, temperature checks, reduced seating, enhanced cleaning and disinfecting of the facilities (including fogging after each performance), pre-packaged concession stand items and ongoing Covid-19 testing for staff and performers.