THE BALLOON MAN

Circus comes to Conroe on Monday

Daredevil acrobats, aerialists, elephants, tigers and clowns are coming to Conroe Monday as part of the Carden Entertainment Circus performing at the Lone Star Expo Center Monday.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
By Brad Meyer
Courier staff

The “big top” tent may be a vanishing part of circus tradition, but the tigers, elephants, aerialists, acrobats, jugglers and clowns still provide thrills and smiles for children of all ages.

The Carden Entertainment Circus comes to the Lone Star Expo Center, located at 9055 FM 1484 in Conroe, Monday with shows at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Special pre-performance activities are being held one hour before each show.

“We’re in our final weeks of performances before the winter break,” said Amanda Tackett, circus spokeswoman. “That, combined with the upcoming holidays, motivates everyone to make each show special.”

More than 200 people and dozens of animals work together to put on each show, Tackett said. It’s a challenge, but it’s a thrill most of the circus family members wouldn’t miss.

“We have acts from 15 countries and some that have been performers for five generations going back 200 years,” she said. “It’s a special bond that is like being part of a family.”

For some, the dream of running away from home to join the circus is a reality. Some attend special circus schools in Europe or South America or the clown college in Sarasota, Fla.

“And some start by helping with staging or caring for the animals,” Tackett said. “Circus people are very friendly and it’s not unusual to learn juggling or how to work with animals.”

While Tackett is not a performer, she said she has learned to juggle and has spent a fair amount of time with the animals in the circus.

“There’s a big difference between ‘carnies’ and circus performers,” she said. “There’s a strong support group in the circus. They are really loveable people.”

As important as those interpersonal bonds may be, the care and well being of the animals in the circus are even bigger challenges. Each tiger eats between 20 and 50 pounds of USDA Choice beef each day. Elephants consume up to 500 pounds of hay, plus bushels of fresh fruits and vegetables.

“The logistics of keeping the animals well fed, groomed and happy is a big job,” said Tackett. “Taking care of the humans is easy by comparison.”

Tackett’s favorite acts are the daredevils, tigers and elephants, but the combination of so many performers packed into one show make the experience special, she said. She’s also proud of Michelle Audrey, a native of Texas, who is the female ringmaster for the circus.