Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls! Step right up to New York’s long-cherished cultural gem, Big Apple Circus! Returning for its 40th Anniversary revival season, Big Apple Circus (BAC) is revitalizing its time-honored circus for modern-day audiences. Now through January 7, trapeze artists, jugglers, and contortionists alike are taking over Lincoln Center, promising a night of wonder and a lifetime of memories. Witness death-defying acts from world-renowned performers like “King of The High Wire” Nik Wallenda, and Ammed Tuniziani of the Flying Tunizianis troupe. And, exclusively for this all-star event, Big Apple icon Grandma the Clown will return from retirement to bring the house down one more time!
Memorable Performances and Amazing Feats
In Big Apple Circus’s intimate one-ring Big Top, no seat is more than 50 feet away from the performers. Watch in awe as the ten-time World Record Holder Nik Wallenda takes on the high-wire, and prepare to be amazed when he and the rest of the Fabulous Wallendas execute the Seven Person Pyramid, a feat only a handful of performers in the world have successfully executed. But hold your applause, because Ammed Tuniziani will then attempt the elusive quadruple somersault. Never before in circus history have these two daring aerial feats been attempted under the Big Top in the same show, so you won’t want to miss this!
These amazing feats of acrobatic prowess are only the beginning of what Big Apple Circus has to offer! Fan favorite Grandma the Clown is sure to put a smile on every face, acclaimed acrobats The Anastasini Brothers will dazzle the crowd with their amazing icarian act, and Jan Damm win inspire awe with hi daring balancing act, all as Ringmaster Ty McFarlan guides the audience through the entire performance!
Be sure to check out the Big Apple Circus website to explore even more of the BAC acts!
The Circus With a Heart
What sets this circus apart from any other is 40 years of continued dedication to demonstrating a strong social conscience in every aspect of their show. Known as the “Circus With a Heart,” Big Apple Circus maintains a no wild or exoitc animals policy, and there are no halters, bridles, or lead ropes for any of their rescue dogs, ponies, or horses. The circus’s certified dog and horse trainer, Jenny Vidbel, is dedicated to the mental and physical well-being of the animals.
As part of its Circus for All initiative, Big Apple Circus produces a series of community shows offering $10 tickets to every seat in the house, with the goal of making it easier for underprivileged children and others in financial hardship to attend. The circus also offers specially priced shows specifically for seniors and school groups.
A Show Designed for All
As if we weren’t already impressed, Big Apple Circus will also continue BAC Gives Back, which includes shows that are adapted for people who have vision, hearing, or cognitive challenges. Circus of the Senses provides a thrilling, multi-sensory experience that integrates theater, dance, and live music with the circus arts, including a pre-show interactive touch experience available for all ticket-holders. Deaf patrons will receive Infrared Audio Descriptive Headsets and ASL Interpreters, and blind attendees will receive Braille and Large Print Programs and a post-show touch session. There will also be Embracing Autism Performances, which include sensory adaptations, adjusted lights and sound, and professionally staffed calming centers.
Big Apple Circus is the perfect family event for New York natives and tourists alike, so stop clowning around and get your tickets today!