THE BALLOON MAN

Circus set to hit IR

By Shawna Jankoviak
Cheboygan Daily Tribune
Jun 28, 2012
Indian River, Mich. — The circus is coming to town.
 The Culpepper & Merriweather Circus is coming to Indian River today, with two scheduled performances at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Inland Lakes School grounds. The circus, which has been deemed “America’s Favorite Big Top Circus,” has become internationally known in its 28 years for quality family entertainment.
 According to the Indian River Chamber of Commerce, the one-ring circus has been featured on National Geographic’s Explorer TV series and Entertainment Tonight, and in articles that appeared in The Los Angeles Times, The Chicago Tribune and Arizona Highways Magazine.
 It has also been featured on the A&E Special, “Under the Big Top,” and most recently, “On the Road with Circus Kids,” a Nickelodeon special featured on the Nick News Program.
 Between 9-10 a.m. today, people can visit the circus site and watch the raising of the Big Top, the unloading of animals and the preparing of rigging for performances later in the day. A free tour will be offered providing a face-to-face opportunity for families, schools and interested community members to meet and learn all about the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus family, including a walking tour of the circus grounds.
 Those attending can expect to learn interesting facts about the performers, the history of the show and the different species of animals in the circus. Topics such as hygiene, grooming and the veterinary care all the animals receive will also be covered.
“In recent years, the Tent Raising and Morning Tour has become a popular program for families and interested community members,” according to circus publicity. “It is presented in a way everyone, young and old can learn many interesting facts about the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus Family and now we have a brand new tent! This is a special part of Circus Day that should not be missed.”
At 4 p.m., the midway and box office will open. Pony rides, moonbounce, concessions and more will be available.
 The circus shows themselves are 90-minutes long, with the first running from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and the second running from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
 This year’s lineup of performers and entertainers includes Miss Simone and her amazing single trapeze, Miss Lana’s Feathered Friends, Miss Paulina on the Web, The Arlise Troupe on their wild and crazy unicycles, Angel Perez with juggling, The Silverlake’s sizzeling whips, Karina and her hoola hoops and The Perez Russian Swing. All will perform with original music, written by Matt Margucci from Los Angeles, California.
“Our performers are sure to amaze, delight and entertain audience members of all ages beyond your wildest imagination,” according to circus publicity.