THE BALLOON MAN

Royal Hanneford Circus Enjoys 38 Years In Westchester

 

Dancers at the Royal Hanneford Circus in White Plains.
Photo Credit: Chaya Babu
from:  mamaroneck.dailyvoice.com
by Chaya Babu
02/19/13
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. ‒ The Royal Hanneford Circus visited White Plains on President's Day weekend for its 38th anniversary at the Westchester County Center.

Families who hold the circus as an annual tradition as well those who came out for the first time took part in the fun.

"It’s always a pleasure to be here because the space is so intimate and everyone’s up close and personal," said Billy Martin, the ringmaster of the circus. "It’s very rewarding to have that interplay between the audience and the performers."

Martin described the circus as an adventure for all ages with something for everyone, from jugglers and aerial acrobatics to the motorcycle daredevils and grandma the clown.

“We’re having a wonderful time. It’s our first year coming," said Paul Hood, who brought his 6-year-old daughter, Milan. "My favorite was the bear on the circular tube and walking on his hands."

"I liked the part when they were driving the motorcycles high in the air; that was fun," Milan said.

Tamara Johnson said, “It’s our second year and it’s been great. We had to work today, but we arranged to leave work early and come to bring the kids.”

She mentioned the spinning trapeze, the animals and the bikes as highlights.
"Oh! And the lady who changes her clothes really fast – we want to see that one," Johnson said.

Letisia Carter was there with her extended family, which includes eight kids. "We come here every year, so I guess it’s a tradition," she said. "The kids really enjoy it, and I find all the acts really entertaining."

The little ones all had their faces painted with colorful designs and sparkles. "We try to do a little bit of everything that's here; it keeps them smiling," Carter said.

Martin stressed that the event is always centered around families. "We’re so thrilled because we have different generations here. There are grandparents who used to come when they were young and now they’re bringing their grandchildren. It’s our family entertaining these families – that’s what the circus is all about."