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Shrine Circus makes 53rd annual appearance in North Platte today
from: nptelegraph.com
By Andrew Bottrell
Thursday, May 31, 2012


The Shrine Circus will be in North Platte for the 53rd straight year today, with performances at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds.


The circus is hosted each year by the North Platte Tehama Shrine Club.
"It's made possible by the support of the community, of the business people, that help us pay for the circus," said Bob Peal, Shrine president.


The main attraction this year, Peal said, is the Globe of Death, a motorcycle cage with several motorcyclists moving about the cage at the same time.


"It's a frequent staple at circuses," he said.


Other attractions include two dog performers, including a Malamute performance, two pony performances and Anna Louise the Dancing Elephant.


"Those ponies, of course, will also be available for pony rides at intermission, along with the elephant rides at intermission," Peal said.
A clown and car act that was in North Platte several years ago with the circus will also be featured.


"The car does crazy things. The clown who drives it provides a lot of laughs for young and old," Peal said.


There will also be a second clown act, which is new to North Platte, and Peal described as similar to Husker mascot Little Red. And, depending on the amount of wind today, there will be several high wire acts, including balancing and juggling acts.


Elementary-aged youth and younger can get in free, Peal said. Youth from middle school age through college can buy tickets at the door for $8, and adults are $12. Gates will open approximately one hour before the performance. Concessions will also be available.