The circus has been a means of entertainment for many years and continues to captivate audiences to this day.
Circus acts and performances offer a world of excitement for all ages to enjoy.
Circus is a form of entertainment that has been around for many centuries. It is an art form that provides awe-inspiring performances for audiences of all ages. From acrobats to clowns, circus acts and performances offer spectacular feats that are sure to leave an unforgettable impression on viewers.
Acrobatics
Acrobatics is one of the most popular circus acts. It involves performing unbelievable stunts of strength, balance, and agility. The acrobats usually perform on a trampoline, tightrope, or on a balance beam. Most acrobats perform breathtaking flips and twists mid-air, landing perfectly on their feet or hands.
Juggling
Juggling is an incredible circus act that requires incredible skill and coordination. The juggler tosses a series of objects, such as balls, knives, or torches. Then he catches the objects without ever breaking the rhythm. The best jugglers can juggle with up to ten different objects thrown in the air at the same time!
Animal Acts
Another popular part of the circus is animal acts. These acts involve highly trained animals performing tricks and stunts to entertain the audience. Some of the most commonly used animals in circus shows includes elephants, horses, and tigers. Some of these animals jump through hoops of fire or balance on pedestals to the amazement of the audience.
Clowning
The clown is the staple of circus performances. The clown provides comic relief. He entertains both children and adults. They often wear huge, bright wigs and red rubber noses. They will perform physical comedy and magic tricks. Circus clowns can also perform juggling, acrobatics, and stunts. This behavior leaves audiences laughing and wanting more.
Aerial performances
Aerial performances involve performers flying through the air on trapezes or hanging from silks, 40 feet above the ground. It is perhaps one of the most breathtaking acts of a circus performance. The audience is captivated by the intense acrobatic moves of the performers as they glide through the air with ease. You can enjoy the World of Circus Acts and Performances as well.
On Monday, July 4, 2023, the circus was in West Branch, Michigan, thanks to the Chamber of Commerce, who sponsor all sorts of fun events. The big top tent was set up behind the Surline Elementary School on S. 1st St and State St. There were other activities going on on the grounds as well, including face painting, a Moon Bounce and a giant slide.
Quite a crowd showed up for the two shows, one at 5:00 and one at 7:30 p.m. The morning of the show, a Tent Raising Tour was held. You could watch the tent go up and get a behind-the-scenes look and learn about life on the road.
For 37 years the Culpepper and Merriweather Circus has been providing entertainment for families. Below you can see images of some of the circus acts and performances at the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus.
All the animals at the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus are captive-bred or rescues. A veterinarian comes to check the animals every 30 days. They are well looked after.
The animals are trained with their favorite treats. They have the choice of which behaviors they feel like doing. Sometimes they perform perfectly, other days they don't cooperate as well.
Big Cats Circus Acts and Performances
Delilah & Solomon are the two big cats in the show. A roadside zoo was having difficulty and was shut down. Thankfully, the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus acquired the two cats. They are called Golden Tabby Tigers. They are a brother and sister and have been together their whole lives.
Wendell the Lion is the newest big cat addition to the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus. He was adopted by the circus. He grew too big for his pet owner to handle. His new handler, Trey, is his best buddy. After Wendell joined the circus, he needed some time to get used to dealing with men. Each performance is a training session for him. Wendell loves Delilah, the female tiger, and she's been integral in helping to teach Wendell what to do in the circus ring.
Elizabeth Ayala's Hair Hanging Performance
The Flame Juggling Unicyclist Act
Leo Acton, The Clown
Leo came riding into the circle in a tiny car. I didn't think a man could fit in it! He opened the car door and folded himself out of it. His act included getting someone to volunteer from the audience to help him out. The young man from the audience played along very well!
The Big Top
The Horse-back Riding Performance
This is a 10-generational bareback horse riding team! The horses are calm and quiet! They stayed side-by-side the whole time.
Tight Rope Act
I enjoyed the show! I hope you enjoyed the images of the World of Circus Acts and Performances! All images were captured by Linda DeColumna of Portraits by Linda, LLC.
If you missed the circus this year, it may be back next year! Check in with the Chamber of Commerce for their calendar of events: 2024!
