The Great Y Circus will take audiences “Out of This World” when it opens its 76th season Friday – and no passport is required.
More than 400 costumed performers will show off their talents during performances planned on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through May 22.
This year’s series of shows follows the circus’ 75th season, which highlighted its entire legacy since its founding in 1929 by former director Roy Coble.
Deciding on a theme is a group effort, said director Tanner Greenhalgh.
“Our themes are brought up to our trainers and all our trainers (talk) about what shows they want to create over the course of the season,” he said. “I think it’s important to have a balance from the type of show we did last year by reliving our legacy going back to the past. They wanted to go more futuristic this year, and so, a different change of pace.”
“Out of This World” includes technological special effects.
“We get to play with that a lot more this year than we have been in the past,” Greenhalgh said.
Circus performers spend close to eight hours or more a day “learning the art and athleticism of various circus acts,” according to a news release. The youngest performers are 3 years old.
The circus consists of “a diverse community of performers that share a mutual passion for the circus arts,” the release said.
More than 200 people assist behind the scenes, Greenhalgh said.
“I think (the circus) survives so strong still today because of what it gives to the community. The community thrives to be a part of it,” he said. “With over 400 people on stage and the amount of volunteers we have, it’s hard to get to know everyone, but everyone seems to. We call ourselves ‘Our Circus Family,’ and we (are).
“The Coble Gym is our home away from home, and some kids spend more time in the evenings with the circus than at their own homes,” he said. “It’s a strong bond between us all, and that’s what keeps the ‘us’ together.”
Contact the writer: Kristina.Hernandez@inlandnewspapers.com; @TheFactsKris
