Then there's its message. The Big Apple Circus not only puts on a show, but maintains strong ties to the communities for which it performs. The Circus is as much about helping as it is entertaining. From programs for the underprivileged and sick children in hospitals to specialized shows for the visually and hearing impaired, the not-for-profit performing arts venue becomes a bright spot in the lives of thousands of people.
But what makes the Big Apple Circus particularly unique is the Upper Valley connection that Paul Binder '63, founder of the Circus, brings to the arena. Binder makes a point of bringing his traveling collection of wonderful people, animals and objects back to Hanover every summer.
In cooperation with the Hopkins Center for the Arts, the Big Apple Circus sets up shop three miles north of campus and provides much-needed laughs, "oohs," and "ahhs" to members of the local community as well as those fortunate enough to be in the middle of their sophomore summers. Seriously, in a battle between midterms and circus, there can be only one winner.
This year's show -- "Step Right Up!" -- brings the audience back to an 1890s-style seaside amusement resort, complete with old-fashioned arcades, carousels, side-shows and thrill rides. Also involved is your usual smattering of amazing feats of acrobatics, highly-trained animals and, of course, Grandma.
Grandma the Clown (a.k.a. Barry Lubin) is an International Clown Hall-of-Fame inductee who is the face of the Big Apple Circus. Last season's show carried the theme "Grandma Goes to Hollywood," and was centered around Grandma. Even though the show this year may not be focused on Grandma, you can be sure that her antics will play a big part in the show.
The Big Apple Circus is known for its diverse collection of international performers. This year should be no different. "Step Right Up!" features jugglers and acrobatic ballerinas from Russia; an equestrienne from England; an Australian cycling specialist; Chinese acrobats who use German wheels and fling themselves from tall poles; and from the United States, a dog show called "Muttville Comix."
Any of this sound interesting? Because on top of all that, you can expect a wide assortment of clowns, acrobats and jugglers to entertain you, and the whole show will be done to the sounds of an original score performed by a live band. The whole shebang is hosted by The Barker, played by Joel Jeske, a veteran clown who will be making his debut for the Circus as the emcee/announcer/juggler extraordinaire for this particular show.
The New York Times said the Circus is "one terrific show ... [a] bright, brisk, music-filled potpourri of daring and comedy that evokes laughter and cheers from beginning to end ... outstanding entertainment."
With an intricately detailed carnival style playground set created by scenic designer Todd Rosenthal, accompanied by Ausitin Sanderson's traditional design and brightly covered costuming, the Big Apple Circus goes above and beyond to create the full effect and vision of a truly magnificent top performance.
The show begins tonight and runs through July 26, with an afternoon and evening show every day. Tickets can be purchased from the Hopkins Center website or at the Hop.
