The Venardos Circus
A traveling troupe blends Broadway theatricality with such circus fare as aerial tricks, acrobatics, contortion, juggling and magic. Yet one traditional aspect is missing from the performance inside the red and white big top tent: no animals are involved. Formed in 2014 by a former Ringling Brothers ringmaster, it’s the first time in Madison for this touring circus.
8/21-9/2, West Towne Mall (near Dave & Buster's), at 6:30 pm Wednesdays-Fridays, 12:30, 3:30 & 6;30 pm on Saturdays and 12:30 & 3:30 pm Sundays, plus 2 pm on 8/30 (sensory-friendly) and noon & 3 pm, 9/2. $45-$25.
press release: The Venardos Circus, a unique Broadway-style circus, will debut for it’s first tour stop in Wisconsin with performances from August 21 through September 2. Special family ticket packs for Labor Day Weekend are available online. Created by former Ringling Bros. Ringmaster Kevin Venardos (veh-NARR-dos) in 2014, the Venardos Circus wraps world-class animal-free circus acts into a Broadway musical-style format dubbed, "The American Circus with the heart of a Broadway Show."
Guests can expect to be transported back in time to the center ring of a centuries-old tradition; but one that has been reinvented for the next generation. With an amazing assortment of aerialists, acrobats, juggling, hand-balancing/contortion, comedy, daredevilry, magic, musical production and much more, this amazing circus experience will truly delight adults and kids of all ages. Venardos Circus proudly features its own custom-made big-top, a classic red-and-white striped tent, with an intimate feel and limited seating. The circus performers also are the crew in this 15-person traveling tour who are completely self-containe, much like the original circus tradition.
“Circus is part of America’s cultural fabric and we want to keep that tradition alive for generations to come,” explained Ringmaster Kevin Venardos. “We look forward to bringing our Broadway-style circus show into Wisconsin for the very first time! We can’t wait to get to know Madison!”
An interactive pre-show party begins one hour before each show time with opportunities to meet the cast, snap selfies and play games. Classic circus treats like popcorn, cotton candy, hot dogs, lemonade and more are available. The main event lasts approximately 90 minutes, with a brief intermission. Complete show schedule available at www.VenardosCircus.com.
General Admission Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for youth under 12 yrs. Babes in arms are free with a paying adult (24 months and younger). Premium Reserved seating is priced from $35 to $45.