The Give & Take Jugglers - Home Page 215.842.9467

"I would recommend the Give & Take Jugglers to anybody looking to entertain audiences of all ages. ...the audience left wanting more." ~ Kevin Ditzler, Director of Arts Education, Ephrata Performing Arts Center

Give and Take Prepares for their annual Folk Fest Spectacular

A more than three decade tradition continues as vibrant as ever

Founder Dave Gillies rigs the parasol tribute piece, gracing Dulcimer Grove for its fourth year.

This year, Give and Take joins forces with their friends and colleagues from the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts. After thirty-three years of thrills in Dulcimer Grove, audiences won't be disappointed this weekend as arial dancers float above them, framed by a leafy canopy and the dramatic background of parasols which have become a favorite at the festival.

In addition to a mix of well-loved classics, and stunning new spectacles, festival goers will throw themselves into the perennial opportunity to learn to juggle, or to visit with with the troupe for behind-the-scenes glimpses and timeless vingettes.

Generations have found joy in learning a variety of juggling skills from Give and Take.

Showtimes will be at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm, on Saturday and Sunday, August 16th and 17th. Between performances, juggling equipment will be available to borrow, and expert instructors will be available for group workshops and one-on-one coaching. See more photos of the event in our PFF08 gallery, and stay tuned as we update it throughout the weekend.

We get asked back again and again.

Highly interactive, for a wide range of ages.

The spirit of Chautauqua, the variety of vaudeville: The Give & Take Show will surprise and please you. It has impressive juggling, comedy, and lots of audience involvement. We use an antique calliope, traditions from vaudeville, circus arts, theater, and live music to create a lively and wholesome show that feels fresh and contemporary. We appeal to a wide range of ages: children, adults, (and even most teenagers).

comedy juggling for a childrens theater school assembly in philadelphia

We are primarily entertainers, but in our school assembly we can highlight the importance of character traits, teamwork, learning from mistakes, and the contributions of different cultures. Our corporate presentation can illuminate concepts such as motivation, innovation, risk assessment, and strategic thinking. But again, the emphasis is on entertainment.

We think about the needs and nature of each audience and occasion, and make adjustments in content and costume. We are always appropriate, and never offensive.

Hear our Calliope! it is a beautiful circus arts theater accompanyment

The bright and cheerful voice of our well-tempered calliope reminds some of a small circus they loved in Europe, or a hurdy gurdy played on a street corner from their childhood. Press the play button below to hear it for yourself.

To see the full range of events that we are available for, please click on the link below:

Article from the Philadelphia Inquirer

Published April 18, 2007, we were very happy with this coverage of our troupe and professional associates. Read the article for yourself

A Call to Local Performing Artists

We hold a monthly Peer-Review Workshop where constructive criticism and collaborative brainstorming are the evening's fare. Our studio is located at 6122 Greene Street in Germantown, Philadelphia. For more information call Dave at 215-842-9467

The next Peer-Review Session is not scheduled.