PBS CIRCUS SPECIAL TO AIR THIS FALL

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Big Apple Circus Launches 2010 Season As PBS Airs Six-Part "Circus" Documentary This Fall

Wednesday, 23 June 2010
Circus lovers everywhere will have twice the excitement, fearlessness and artistry to look forward to this fall -- courtesy of New York’s own hometown circus, the not-for-profit Big Apple Circus (www.bigapplecircus.org) (http://www.bigapplecircus.org) and PBS public television.
First, the always-anticipated premiere of the 2010 season in NYC of the beloved Big Apple Circus will take place October 21 – January 9, 2011 at Lincoln Center, which has hosted this icon created by Living Landmarks Paul Binder and Michael Christiansen since 1981.
Plus, PBS will be airing a six -part documentary, "Circus," which provides viewers with a one-of-a-kind backstage pass to experience the rich and complex life under the tent and behind-the-scenes in the creation of the 2008 season of the Big Apple Circus airing nationally on November 3 through November 17, 2010.
"The PBS documentary marks the first time in our 32-year history that we granted this level of backstage access to anyone," said Artistic Director Guillaume Dufresnoy, who is featured throughout the "Circus" documentary and worked hand-in-hand with every department of Big Apple Circus and the Emmy Award-winning Show Of Force producers on the extensive coordination needed to create the extraordinary series. "I believe viewers will gain a unique insight into the complex process that allows the Big Apple Circus family of artists and artisans to turn a dream into the beloved one-ring, intimate human art form that has captured the hearts of audiences around the globe for centuries. I am sure that audiences who experience our 2010 production -- whether live in Lincoln Center, Boston or elsewhere – will have a deeper appreciation for the talent, skill, discipline and dedication it takes to create the live show from having seen the documentary," Dufresnoy added. "It's like enjoying a great meal: When you see the love and care that the chef displays in the kitchen, everything tastes that much better."
ABOUT BIG APPLE CIRCUS
For 32 years the Big Apple Circus, New York’s original one–ring circus, has been delighting audiences of all ages under its Big Top, presenting the finest in live family entertainment featuring world–class circus artistry. Experience the instant connection between audience and artist as your family sits less than 50 feet from the ring. The Big Apple Circus is a not–for–profit performing arts and outreach institution committed to invigorating the communities we serve with the joy and wonder of classical circus. 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 — Clown Care, Vaudeville Caravan, Circus After School, Circus For All! and Circus of the Senses — as well as its critically acclaimed performances.
For more information about Big Apple Circus visit: www.bigapplecircus.org (http://www.bigapplecircus.org)