For 24 years the Big Apple Circus, New York's original one¼ring circus, has been delighting audiences of all ages under its Big Top by presenting the finest in live family entertainment featuring world-class circus artistry. There is an instant connection between the audience and artist as circus seats are less than 50 feet from the ring. The Big Apple Circus is a not-for-profit performing arts and community outreach institution committed to children and their families. The tax deductible contributions made by corporations, foundations and individuals enable the Big Apple Circus to bring its special magic to diverse audiences through its outreach programs - the Big Apple Circus Clown Care Unit®, Beyond the Ring®, Circus For All! ® and Circus of the Senses® - as well as its critically acclaimed performances. After introducing Rockland County residents to The Big Apple Circus in 2001, BAC joined forces with CIIC to create community building events which encouraged a wider awareness of the circus' presence in Rockland to its audience base. CIIC's ever- expanding press contacts enabled BAC to reach a wide variety of publications and broadcast media during its run at the Palisades Center in June 2002 and establish itself as a premier family entertainment source in northern New York.