​Most of the time when a circus comes to town it's all about skill and entertainment, but those are not the only goals of the Galilee Youth Circus. Founded in 2003, in response to tensions between Israeli Jews and Arabs in the Galilee, the circus was created with belief that the arts can serve as a bridge between people; both the performers and the audience. The skills of balance, trust, risk-taking and overcoming fear that are needed to be a successful circus performer are indeed the skills needed to bridge the gap between people. On Thursday night July 19, an intergenerational, multicultural audience of over 250 gasped with joy, awe and excitement during the incredible performance of the Galilee Youth Circus. Everyone went into the steamy night with smiles on their faces. Their local tour included a skill exchange and training with Philadelphia's Youth Circus. Kudos to Rabbi David Strauss and the JCRC for bringing this special Troupe to Philadelphia.