The circus is in town and it’s as great an audience-pleaser as ever. The top levels at the Erwin Center were blocked off, and the entire quota of lower-level seats appeared to be sold out. Our tickets were a mere $15, and a complete bargain, so long as the souvenirs, photo ops, and refreshments can be resisted. This year, the presentation is the blue show of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The costumes are inventive and colorful, the choreography is fresh, and every aspect contributes to a full theatrical experience. Certain acts (those with a vague aura of being refugees from Cirque du Soleil) were accompanied by somewhat New Age music; all music was courtesy of the band, incorporating a good number of live musicians and some prepared synthesized elements.

In the photograph of the departing audience may be seen a bit of a souvenir stand. As we walked down the hill after crossing with the assistance of an off-duty policeman who held up traffic to allow our passage, perfect strangers enjoyed lively discussions about which were the best acts. My favorites were the “Cossack” horsemanship segment, the humorous dog act, and the accomplished and very beautiful performance by the large troupe of Chinese acrobats, which I won’t describe, but that incorporated novelties that produced very beautiful effects.

Remaining shows are one more today (at 7:30 pm) and two tomorrow (at 1:30 and 5:30 pm). We always enjoy looking at the outdoor backstage and commissary area in the parking lot. It’s always a bit surprising how many of the performers do love their cigarettes. Today all of us watching were treated to a view of the performing dogs frisking around together. There are more expensive seats, to be sure, but those $15 bargains give a perfectly fine view. For those arriving early there’s a preperformance look at aspects of the circus that are a great treat for small children.