‘The Ordinary Acrobat: A Journey into the Wondrous World of the Circus, Past and Present’ by Duncan Wall
Knopf) - ‘The Ordinary Acrobat: A Journey into the Wondrous World of the Circus, Past and Present’ by Duncan Wall
from: washingtonpost.com
By Elizabeth McCracken,
May 03, 2013 08:56 PM EDT
The Washington Post
It is called “the circus,” singular noun, definite article, as though there were only one. But the history of the circus is multitudinous, badly documented, clouded by legend and stereotypes; it is the history of many circuses over many years, each circus composed of many acts — rings within rings within rings. It’s hard to know where to start looking at it.
In his lovely new book, “The Ordinary Acrobat,” Duncan Wall finds useful spots from which to peer at the history of the circus: from the top of the trapeze platform, beneath a cascade of juggling balls and behind a red nose on his own face in the circus-mad Paris of 2003. He joins the circus to understand it.
Wall wasn’t always a circus obsessive. His conversion occurred while he was in Paris during college, attending a circus in the Parc de la Villette. The performance was nothing like the circus of his youth: “The juggler had a Mohawk. The acrobats were unshaven and dressed in ratty black suits with the cuffs rolled up. . . . It was visceral, real, and admirably raw.” Thereafter, Wall was what the French call a circusphile and the Americans “a gawk”: lovestruck, circus-struck. A year later, in 2003, he returned to Paris on a Fulbright fellowship to enroll in the Ecole Nationale des Arts du Cirque de Rosny-sous-Bois. In other words, he came to gawk from the inside
“The Ordinary Acrobat” interlaces chapters about his triumphs and phobias in his studies, his interviews of Parisian circus figures and the wider history of the European circus. The history in the book is effortless and compact, if necessarily less than comprehensive. He covers an astonishing amount in a 300-page book, with sections on Philip Astley (the English businessman who essentially invented the circus), P.T. Barnum, Cirque du Soleil and the earliest origins of the feats that eventually became the compilation known as the circus.
read more:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/the-ordinary-acrobat-a-journey-into-the-wondrous-world-of-the-circus-past-and-present-by-duncan-wall/2013/05/03/b25f064c-9ba3-11e2-9a79-eb5280c81c63_story.html
The Circus Is Back in Town
The clowns are the highlight of the show
‘The Great World Circus’ features trapeze artists and a gigantic hamster wheel. (Photo courtesy of Summarecon Mal Serpong)
from: thejarkataglobe.com
By Marcel Thee
May 3, 2013.
Flipping dogs, climbing cats, jolly clowns, trapeze artists and human totem poles are just some of what “The Great World Circus” has in store for visitors.
Opening last week at Summarecon Mal Serpong in Tangerang, Banten, the circus has its tent up until May 19 with two shows every weekday (4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.) and four shows every weekend day and holiday (10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.).
While the mall’s previous circus event focused on Russian acts, the “World Circus” sees an intriguing mix of American, Australian, Chinese and Indonesian performers showcasing their tricks.
While it is not always easy to distinguish between them, the variation does make for a welcome change from the usually ham-fisted local circus shows of recent years.
The circus’s spotlight shines brightest on Russian clowns Oleg Liostaiev and Iulia Konokh, both part of ringmaster Sasha Vosk’s troupe. The couple’s energy transcends a generally unreceptive Indonesian crowd, spicing the mood for less animated performers.
At more than a few shows, Liostaiev runs into the arena, quickly approaches an audience member and mimics their unenthusiastic body-slouched, arms-crossed pose, jolting plenty of others up from the same position.
The clowns’ interactions with audience members often draw the biggest applause of the night.
None of the other performers quite live up to Liostaiev and Konokh’s antics, but Henry Gonzales and Lennin Johan’s “Wheel of Death” evokes similar awe from the audience.
‘The Great World Circus’ features trapeze artists and a gigantic hamster wheel. (Photo courtesy of Summarecon Mal Serpong)
Performing on a gigantic hamster wheel spinning fast enough to cause serious injury, Gonzales and Lennin clearly relish the audience’s “ooohs” and “aaahs” accompanying their increasingly dazzling acrobatics.
As most of the visitors were young children, the dog-and-cat show also went down a storm. Russian dog trainer Andrey Loshkin had his gang of canines roll and flip all over the place, while a trio of compatriot trainers had cats rope-hanging and juggling to the delight of every child in the audience.
A slight letdown was Indonesian magician Paul Matapuzh’s show. Performing only one trick and with a lethargic sense of pace, Matapuzh’s flashy getup was not matched by his showmanship.
It didn’t help that the clearly able illusionist’s time slot as the opener of the show’s second session was shoehorned between people returning to their seats and a far more animated trapeze.
But things swiftly pick up with the ZimboyZ and their gymnastic routine. The trio of Silvestre Cauiane, Vusa Mangunggu and Wenwesen Damitie Haileyesus contort, stand on each other and go against the laws of physics as they create a human totem pole.
The mall’s corporate representative Cut Meutia said the event was part of the shopping center’s plan to globalize its image. “ ‘The World Circus’ is being held to entertain people from the surrounding area with an international-class escapade,” she said.
Seats are not numbered, so it is best to arrive early, but a good time for the whole family awaits.
Finally, MPs move to ban circuses from using exotic animals: Only horses, dogs and rabbits will be allowed
•Move comes after shocking treatment of Anne the elephant
•Two circuses have had requests to use wild animals rejected in past year
•Move comes after shocking treatment of Anne the elephant
•Two circuses have had requests to use wild animals rejected in past year
Banned: The Government wants to stop circuses using wild animals and plan to unveil a draft bill. Pictured is an elephant performing at a German circus
By Gerri Peev
15 April 2013
Circuses will be banned from using wild animals under a proposed change in the law.
Ministers will today unveil a draft bill that will ban using exotic beasts in big tops. Only domesticated animals, such as rabbits, dogs and horses, will be allowed to perform.
The move comes after the Daily Mail exposed the cruelty inflicted on Anne the elephant, who was kept in chains. Owner Bobby Roberts was convicted of animal cruelty after an undercover film showed Anne being kicked and hit with a pitchfork.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2309688/Finally-MPs-ban-circuses-using-exotic-animals-Only-horses-dogs-rabbits-allowed.html#ixzz2SK4yswxM
ATLANTA SHRINE CIRCUS
Shrine Circus Comes To Cobb
from: brightsidecobb.com
by admin
April 22, 2013
The largest Shrine Circus and Fair in North America is back for its 71st year May 3-12 at Jim Miller Park.
Packed with more excitement and thrills than ever, this year’s Tarzan Zerbini Circus features several new acts including a magnificent Big Cat Extravaganza, Brian Miser- the Human Fuse, and Simon Arestov, the Comedy Strong Man. The Myers International Midway will add to the fun with several new attractions and amusement rides. Come be entertained and amazed, laugh at the Shriner Clowns, then fill up on all your favorite fair foods- corn dogs, funnel cakes and cotton candy, just to name a few.
The Midway opens at 5 p.m.; Saturday at 10 a.m.; Sunday at Noon. Circus performances are 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday (except no 11 a.m. May 7 & 9); Saturday at 11, 1 4, and 7 and Sunday 1 , 4 and 7. A “Sneak-A-Peek-Ride-A-Thon” on Thursday, May 2, $15 with unlimited rides (Only Carnival and food).
Gate Admission includes unlimited performances to the circus on any given day and access to the grounds for the Carnival Midway. Adults – $10; Children – ages 6-11; $6; Free for children 36” and under. Ride Tickets: $1 each, all rides require more than one ticket. $10 for 10 tickets; $20 for 22 tickets; Unlimited Ride Specials: $25 pay-one-price unlimited rides per person any day with paid admission. Parking is $5 per vehicle.
Led by incomparable Ringmaster Richard Curtis, the 71st Annual Yaarab Shrine Tarzan Zerbini Circus and Fair will delight and excite your family like never before. Watch the Ives Brothers perform daring motorcycle stunts, the Flying Cortez will amaze with spectacular aerial feats and the Big Cat Extravaganza will certainly delight you. For the first time in Marietta, don’t miss Brian Miser, launching from the world’s largest crossbow. The Shrine Circus Clowns and Patricia Zerbini and her Elephant Act will add laughter to all the thrilling entertainment.
read more:
http://brightsidecobb.com/shrine-circus-comes-to-cobb/
Review: Bianco, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff
Cardiff-based NoFit State Circus return to their home city with their latest production, Bianco Turning Savage
Cardiff-based NoFit State Circus return to their home city with their latest production, Bianco Turning Savage
Bianco will be at the Wales Millennium Centre until Saturday
from: walesonline.co.uk
By Jessica Best
2 May 2013
It’s hard to know where to begin to describe Bianco – the latest show from NoFit State Circus.
The breathtaking production at the Wales Millennium Centre was my first experience of the Cardiff-based circus performers, and I’ve never seen anything quite like it.
Firstly, you get to get to see the fantastic WMC in a whole new way, as you’re ushered onto the pitch-black stage and watch the show standing among, underneath and in-between the performers.
Then, out of the darkness, the magic begins. For two hours, the circus’ unbelievably talented cast leap, fly, jump, twist, turn and swing through the air, in a show that is as baffling as it is beautiful.
Five women hang suspended from ropes, rag-doll like, high above your head, before plunging towards the floor as the length supporting them unravels.
A glamorous blonde in a red sundress, straw hat and sunglasses takes to a tightrope in red high heels, before ripping off the shoes, hat, shades, and dress – all while balanced on the razor thin wire.
A man sails over the audience on straps which such grace and ease that the audience’s initial shock at his sudden appearance is replaced by an awed silence.
read more:
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/whats-on/review-bianco-wales-millennium-centre-3317468
Circus Vargas sets up big top in Ventura
Photo by Mike Rollerson
Matti Esqueda and Jon Weiss use acting, mime and improvisation in their clown act for “Magikaria,” Circus Vargas’ new show.
from:vcstar.com
May 2, 2013
.Beneath 90,000 square feet of canvas at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, the mood is “Magikal.”
Ventura’s very visible big-top tent houses “Magikaria,” Circus Vargas’ latest show, with performances through Monday.
Circus Vargas promoters are throwing out as many magic-related adjectives as possible to describe the show: “fantastical,” unexplainable,” “mystical,” “hypnotic,” “mesmerizing,” “spellbinding.” Leading the cast of mesmerizes is illusionist Patrick Gable, whose chiseled chest is as captivating as his magic act.
Other performers in this animal-free show include singing ringmaster Kevin Venardos, clowning duo Matti Esqueda and Jon Weiss, “Human Rocket” Leo Garcia (who is launched 75 feet from a cannon), trapeze artists, aerialists, a juggler, wire walkers and more.
Circus Vargas will be at the fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., through Monday. Showtimes are 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. today; 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 1, 4 and 7 p.m. Sunday; and 6 p.m. Monday. Arrive 30 minutes early for an interactive preshow catered to kids.
Read more: http://www.vcstar.com/news/2013/may/02/circus-vargas-sets-up-big-top-in-ventura/#ixzz2SE9PCqxH
- vcstar.com
The circus comes to town
Circus Royale Owner & Ringmaster Mr Damian Syred
from: pilbaraecho.com.au
by Ben Leahy
May 3, 2013
Is life getting a bit too serious?
Well this month you could be clowning around with acrobats, high wire motorbikes and even llamas as Australia’s Circus Royale and the Pilbara Echo give away more than 100 double passes to the big top.
Performing at the Country Club in Bulgarra from May 18 to 21, Karratha readers can win one of 15 double passes, while Hedland readers can snap up 100 double passes to the show at McGregor Street from May 24 to
June 3.
To win, readers need to visit www.pilbaraecho.com.au.
Circus Royale ringmaster and owner Damian Syred said that with acts by artists from nine different countries, families can expect an entirely new show compared to the group’s last visit two years ago.
“We have brand new artists, like the motorbike highwire,” Damian said.
“That is where the motorbike goes up on the high wire, and he’s got two girls suspended on a trapeze beneath him – that is something even I had never seen before.”
Families can also expect to see the UK’s acrobatic roller skating duo, the Miller Brothers, Goldie the clown and animal acts involving dogs, ponies, camels and llamas.
Llamas – what do they do?
“The llamas are part of my brother’s camel act,” Damian said.
“They run under and jump over camels that are standing and sitting.”
Like the llamas, life on the road can occasionally get bumpy for the rest of the Circus Royale performers too after their big top got flooded by a flash thunderstorm during their last visit to Karratha.
And, of course, in show business the show must go on.
“It happened overnight, but we still managed to put on the show the next night thanks to all our team and a few locals pitching in to help get us through,” he said.
Despite the drama, for Damian the joys of circus life far outweigh the trials.
Having first worked with Circus Royale for work experience making show bags he eventually bought the whole show in 2007.
He hopes this infectious love for the circus rubs off on those who come to watch.
“It is traditional fun for the whole family, we aim to please all the age groups,” he said.
Circus counters claim of elephant mistreatment
Mistreated elephants? Circus counters animal rights group's assertions
Handler Tim Frisco feeds baby carrots to Hugo, 2, the youngest elephant at the Cole Bros. Circus at Frederick Fairgrounds.
Staff photo by Adam Fried
from: fredericknewspost.com
By Kelsi Loos News-Post Staff
May 2, 2013
An animal rights group wants the U.S. Department of Agriculture to investigate the treatment of animals traveling with the Cole Bros. Circus, which had shows in Frederick on Wednesday and performs again today.
The California group In Defense of Animals specifically asked for an investigation into the health and welfare of a baby elephant named Val and tigers in the circus. The complaint raises questions about the handling of Val and her brother, Hugo, during travel, performances and elephant rides.
Spokeswoman Deborah Robinson said the group sent video to the USDA in which the elephants exhibited signs of poor welfare, including pacing and bobbing their heads.
Robinson did not notice signs of physical neglect, she said.
A USDA spokesman said the agency had not received the complaint as of Wednesday. He added that Cole Bros. is no longer licensed with the USDA because the circus does not own any animals.
Mistreated elephants? Circus counters animal rights group's assertions
Handler Tim Frisco feeds baby carrots to Hugo, 2, the youngest elephant at the Cole Bros. Circus at Frederick Fairgrounds.
Staff photo by Adam Fried
from: fredericknewspost.com
By Kelsi Loos News-Post Staff
May 2, 2013
An animal rights group wants the U.S. Department of Agriculture to investigate the treatment of animals traveling with the Cole Bros. Circus, which had shows in Frederick on Wednesday and performs again today.
The California group In Defense of Animals specifically asked for an investigation into the health and welfare of a baby elephant named Val and tigers in the circus. The complaint raises questions about the handling of Val and her brother, Hugo, during travel, performances and elephant rides.
Spokeswoman Deborah Robinson said the group sent video to the USDA in which the elephants exhibited signs of poor welfare, including pacing and bobbing their heads.
Robinson did not notice signs of physical neglect, she said.
A USDA spokesman said the agency had not received the complaint as of Wednesday. He added that Cole Bros. is no longer licensed with the USDA because the circus does not own any animals.
Mistreated elephants? Circus counters animal rights group's assertions
Hugo, a baby elephant, eats hay Wednesday morning at the Cole Bros. Circus at Frederick Fairgrounds.
Staff photo by Adam Fried
The animals at the circus are owned by licensees that contract with Cole Bros. to travel with the circus.
Renee Storey, vice president of administration for the circus, rebutted the claim that the elephants were under duress.
“They have wonderful care, and I cannot imagine why anyone would make a complaint like this unless it comes from a fundamental objection to using animals,” she said.
Storey emphasized that the elephants’ performance and travel routine were not stressful, as alleged in the complaint.
The elephants perform about half an hour a day or less and may give elephant rides for two or three hours.
Elephants eat grass and hay Wednesday morning at the Cole Bros. Circus at Frederick Fairgrounds.
Staff photo by Adam Fried
The USDA requires that circus animals be under the supervision of a veterinarian and undergo a thorough physical examination at least once a year, Storey said. The circus has an additional veterinarian on call and does routine checkups, she said.
In Defense of Animals also said the elephants traveled apart from their mother, which Robinson said can stress the animals.
“In a perfect world, they would be pulled off the road and sent back with their mother,” she said. “This is just sort of part of life for an elephant in the circus, and it’s just awful.”
Storey said that the young elephants were traveling with their mother. On Wednesday afternoon, the two were in a pen with three adults, one of which was their mother, according to a circus employee.
In Defense of Animals said complaints have been made against Cole Bros. Circus in the past.
The USDA cited Allen Bros. Circus, then performing under the name Cole Bros., in 2010 for being unable to demonstrate the tiger handler was adequately trained in caring for the animals.
The circus has one master trainer who needs to be approved by the USDA and two assistants. The circus makes sure they are qualified to handle and care for the animals, Storey said.
The owner of the circus, John Pugh, pleaded guilty in 2011 to violating the Endangered Species Act by attempting to sell two Asian elephants, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
Big top circus is big hit with PACO
Matt Santos/Review
The Culpepper & Merriweather Circus performed in Paulden, with near capacity crowds filling the big top.
from: chinovalleyreview.com
Matt Santos, Reporter
April 28, 2013
The big top rolled into town this past weekend as the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus came to Paulden for two shows on Saturday.
Both the 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. shows were performed in front of near capacity crowds, delighting children of all ages.
Matt Santos/Review
The Culpepper & Merriweather Circus performed in Paulden, with near capacity crowds filling the big top.
from: chinovalleyreview.com
Matt Santos, Reporter
April 28, 2013
The big top rolled into town this past weekend as the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus came to Paulden for two shows on Saturday.
Both the 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. shows were performed in front of near capacity crowds, delighting children of all ages.
The big top rolled into town this past weekend as the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus came to Paulden for two shows on Saturday. Both the 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. shows were performed in front of near capacity crowds, delighting children of all ages.
read and see more:
http://chinovalleyreview.com/main.asp?SectionID=74&SubSectionID=114&ArticleID=56931
Miller Circus coming to Roanoke Park on May 11
Ryan Holder and his team of tigers will perform as part of the Kelly Miller Bros. Circus, which will stage two shows — at 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. — on Saturday, May 11, at Roanoke Park. The circus is sponsored by American Legion Post 160.
Photo provided.
from: huntingtoncountytab.com
May 2, 2013
American Legion Post 160, Roanoke, will sponsor two performances of the Kelly Miller Bros. Circus on Saturday, May 11.
Proceeds will benefit the Legion's Honor Flight program, which provides area veterans with one-day trips to Washington, DC, where they can view memorials to the wars they fought in.
Circus performances are at 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. at Roanoke Park. Advance tickets are available at American Legion Post 160, Bippus State Bank in Roanoke and Huntington, Carroll's Flooring, Hoosier Foods, Sparky Mart in Roanoke and EconoMart in Huntington.
The public is also invited to watch as the circus elephants raise the tent at about 9 a.m. on May 11. There is no charge to watch the tent-raising. After the first of the four poles is in place, the public will be invited inside the tent to watch the elephants and a human crew complete the task. A circus veteran will be on hand to answer questions and talk about circus life.
The Kelly Miller Bros. Circus, founded in 1938 and currently celebrating its 75th anniversary, will travel nearly 10,000 miles and give performances in more than 200 communities as it travels across North America from March through October.
The circus performances feature animals, clowns and a host of international circus performers.
While the three Asian elephants are the biggest performers in the circus, the show also features zebras in a synchronized swirling act; a patriotic revue with llamas, miniature goats and dogs; and trained tigers. The human performers present feats of juggling, trapeze artists, a dance and drum routine and a chair balancing act. A pair of clowns will provide the laughs throughout the show.
Circus, Auctions, Sales and more
from: dailyjournalonline.com
Around Town By Janet Douglas
May 2, 2013
The Kelly Miller Circus, sponsored by the local Rotary Club, has folded its tent and moved on after a successful two-day stop in Farmington. The only reminder of the Big Top's visit is in the keeping of Harold Hastings. Harold has served as the Manager of Exotic Waste Management for the circus visits for the past two years. The criteria for this position is a very large shovel, wheelbarrow, and strong stomach, as it entails the collection and removal of accumulated "poo" of the various members of the circus menagerie; specifically elephants, camels, horses and a zebra.
After the collecting portion, there still remains the problem of disposal. This is the situation where Harold now finds himself. What does one do with a truckload or two of exotic poo? Harold said he used a lot of it last year on his garden and it made a wonderful fertilizer, but now he has this year's crop added to the remains from last year and, well, the entire matter has gotten a little out of hand. So the solution is to share the bounty, so to speak, with as many local gardeners as care to take a portion of the redolent waste to spread on their own gardens. Those interested should contact Harold at his place of business on East Karsch Boulevard. Don't forget to bring your own shovels and containers. There is also a strict no return policy.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
HANNEFORD IN ELMIRA
Circus delights crowds at First Arena
Jeff Murray / Staff Photo
Clowns perform for the audience Wednesday during a performance of the Kalurah Shriners Royal Hanneford Circus at the First Arena in Elmira.
from: stargazette.com
Written by Staff report@stargazette
May 1, 2013
High-flying trapeze artists, clowns, trained animals, jugglers and other performers delighted the audience with their antics Wednesday when the Kalurah Shriners Royal Hanneford Circus visited the First Arena in Elmira.
The circus gave afternoon and evening performances Wednesday.
Jeff Murray / Staff Photo
Clowns perform for the audience Wednesday during a performance of the Kalurah Shriners Royal Hanneford Circus at the First Arena in Elmira.
from: stargazette.com
Written by Staff report@stargazette
May 1, 2013
High-flying trapeze artists, clowns, trained animals, jugglers and other performers delighted the audience with their antics Wednesday when the Kalurah Shriners Royal Hanneford Circus visited the First Arena in Elmira.
The circus gave afternoon and evening performances Wednesday.
Jeff Murray / Staff Photo
Dancers perform during Wednesday's appearance of the Kalurah Shriners Royal Hanneford Circus at the First Arena.
The performance featured motorcycle performers who roared across wires high above the crowd, dogs that danced, leaped and jumped over hurdles, a contortionist who fit himself into a small glass tank, a juggler who handled flaming torches and numerous other performers.
The Hanneford family can trace its circus roots back more than two centuries to Edwin Hanneford, a foot juggler who performed on London street corners and at fairs, according to the circus website.
Among the honors bestowed on Edwin was a summons to perform before King George III in 1778, in a contest to determine who was the best juggler in England.
The Hanneford family first toured as a troupe in 1807. All successive generations of Hannefords performed in some capacity, and by 1903, the family had its own show.
Jeff Murray / Staff Photo
A member of the Kalurah Shriners Royal Hanneford Circus performs with Hula hoops during Wednesday's show at the First Arena.
These days, the circus has three complete performing units that tour all over the United States.
The group that performed in Elmira will next be at the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena in Binghamton for performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Jeff Murray / Staff Photo
A contortionist twists his body during a performance Wednesday of the Kalurah Shriners Royal Hanneford Circus at First Arena in Elmira.
Jeff Murray / Staff Photo
Children ride on a special train prior to the start of the Kalurah Shriners Royal Hanneford Circus on Wednesday at the First Arena.
more fotos at
http://www.stargazette.com/article/20130501/NEWS01/305010085/Circus-delights-crowds-at-First-Arena
Correction: Wisconsin Budget-Circus World story
from: therepublic.com
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
May 01, 2013
MADISON, Wisconsin — In a story April 30 about the Circus World Museum's finances, The Associated Press reported erroneously that a Legislative Fiscal Bureau analysis found the museum's 2013 operating budget assumes expenses will outpace revenues by $975,000. The budget assumes expenses will outpace revenues by $97,500.
from: therepublic.com
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
May 01, 2013
MADISON, Wisconsin — In a story April 30 about the Circus World Museum's finances, The Associated Press reported erroneously that a Legislative Fiscal Bureau analysis found the museum's 2013 operating budget assumes expenses will outpace revenues by $975,000. The budget assumes expenses will outpace revenues by $97,500.
A corrected version of the story is below:
Wis. committee nixes state control of Circus World
Wisconsin budget committee nixes Walker's plan for state control of Circus World Museum
By TODD RICHMOND
Associated Press
MADISON, Wisconsin — The Legislature's finance committee on Tuesday overwhelmingly rejected Republican Gov. Scott Walker's plan to let the state Historical Society take over Baraboo's struggling Circus World Museum, saying the site will have to find other ways to survive.
The Republican-controlled committee's co-chairs, Rep. John Nygren, R-Marinette, and Sen. Alberta Darling, R-River Hills, said the state faces larger problems and lawmakers must be prudent about spending tax dollars.
"Circus World will have to make it on its own," Nygren told reporters.
The museum stands on what was once the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus's winter grounds in Baraboo, a city of 12,000 people about 50 miles northwest of Madison. The museum includes original buildings from the winter camp, an extensive collection of circus artifacts, including more than 200 circus wagons, posters and ads as well as a hippodrome performance center.
read more:
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/400e2a24d806405f833e3a9bc8faeeb9/WI-XGR--Wisconsin-Budget-Circus-World
read more:
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/400e2a24d806405f833e3a9bc8faeeb9/WI-XGR--Wisconsin-Budget-Circus-World
CULPEPPER & MERRIWEATHER CIRCUS
Circus hits Douglas
Miss Elizabeth dazzled the crowd with her hair hanging routine on April 23. Trisha Maldonado/Douglas Dispatch
By Trisha Maldonado
Douglas Dispatch.com
May 1, 2013
Small circuses like Culpepper & Merriweather Circus offer fans the opportunity to see the circus in an up-close and personal setting.
That’s exactly what visiting circus gave the community of Douglas on April 23 with two shows.
Francis the lion was introduced to the audience at the beginning of the event. There were many ooh’s and aah’s over the big loveable cat by many children in the audience.
Patrons were also entertained by the many antics of Judy and Punchy the clowns.
In a blur of motion and flurry of peddling, the Arlise Troupe navigated the ring on all sizes of unicycles.
Miss Elizabeth amazed the audience with her ‘Hang Hair’ routine. While Miss Elizabeth hung in midair by her hair she juggled and performed a stunning spinning routine.
Miss Elizabeth dazzled the crowd with her hair hanging routine on April 23. Trisha Maldonado/Douglas Dispatch
By Trisha Maldonado
Douglas Dispatch.com
May 1, 2013
Small circuses like Culpepper & Merriweather Circus offer fans the opportunity to see the circus in an up-close and personal setting.
That’s exactly what visiting circus gave the community of Douglas on April 23 with two shows.
Francis the lion was introduced to the audience at the beginning of the event. There were many ooh’s and aah’s over the big loveable cat by many children in the audience.
Patrons were also entertained by the many antics of Judy and Punchy the clowns.
In a blur of motion and flurry of peddling, the Arlise Troupe navigated the ring on all sizes of unicycles.
Miss Elizabeth amazed the audience with her ‘Hang Hair’ routine. While Miss Elizabeth hung in midair by her hair she juggled and performed a stunning spinning routine.
Miss Natalie and her precious puppies amaze the audience at their many talents. Trisha Maldonado/Douglas Dispatch
Miss Natalie and her dogs showed the audience that dogs can do more than just sit and rollover. One of her fuzzy friends flew off a six foot ladder right into Miss Natalie’s arms.
The Arlise Troupe performed many spectacular stunts on unicycles off all sizes at the circus that visited Douglas last week.
Trisha Maldonado/Douglas Dispatch
The first show at 5 p.m. had a good turnout according to Danny Morales, Douglas Chamber of Commerce Secretary
Mariana Lopez,1, watches in amazement during the 5 p.m. showing of the circus last week.
Trisha Maldonado/Douglas Dispatch
“I see a lot of smiles in the crowd. I see a lot of excitement,” he said. “I think this is probably the first time that several of them seen a big top circus. I can see it in the smiles as the little kids are coming in.”
Chamber President, Susan Kramer does hope to bring the circus back.“I think it went very well. Both shows were pretty full,” she said. “I had many people come up to me thanking the chamber for doing this and that they loved the circus.”
read more:
http://www.douglasdispatch.com/articles/2013/05/01/news/doc518151b7512a1440202140.txt