THE BALLOON MAN

Circus headed to Princess Anne, MD

By Wendy Thompson • July 14, 2010

Camel rides are part of the Zerbini Family Circus which will be under the big top next week in Princess Anne.

PRINCESS ANNE -- "For me it's an honor to be part of a family tradition that many people aren't born into any more," said Melody Zerbini Ramirez on the telephone from her Florida home as she prepared to leave on an East Coast tour with the Zerbini Family Circus which will visit the grounds of the Somerset County Civic Center next week.
With eight generations on her father's side and four on her mother's, Zerbino Ramirez should know all the ropes about circuses.She describes the show as "traditional with a modern twist," with clowns, animal acts, jugglers and balancing artists providing the "old school" items, while the aerial display is a nod to Cirque du Soleil -- all performed under a striking yellow-and-blue big top.
The production truly is a family affair from setup to grande finale.Ringmaster Zerbino Ramirez announces the program starring her father, Alain Zerbini, mother, Letty Castro Zerbini, and 16-year-old brother, Julian.Besides handling the advance promotions, her husband, Gustavo Ramirez, doubles as the show's comedian.Members of the Sanchez family, who have collaborated with the company for more than 10 years, complete the staff.
Popular highlights include appearances by Tantanka the buffalo and performances by the company's rescue dogs."It's 90 minutes of fun. The oldest form of family entertainment," said Zerbino Ramirez.
Performances are at 5 and 7:30 p.m.
Tickets go on sale at the box office one hour before each show, giving visitors the chance to get into the circus spirit with games, pony and camel rides.