July 5-6 and July 8-9—MIDDLEBURY and MANCHESTER—Vermont’s Circus Smirkus kicks off its 38th annual Big Top Tour this summer, bringing its high-energy, youth-powered performances to Middlebury on July 5 & 6, and Manchester on July 8 & 9.
Fresh off its opening weekend in Greensboro, the award-winning youth circus will roll into the Mary Hogan Elementary School Field in Middlebury before heading to Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park in Manchester. The troupe will perform four shows at each stop, offering families and circus lovers a chance to experience one of New England’s favorite summer traditions.
Circus Smirkus is the only traveling tented youth circus in the United States, featuring 28 young performers, ages 12-18, from across 14 states. Under a traditional European-style circus tent, these budding artists showcase aerials, acrobatics, juggling, and clowning, bringing audiences of all ages to the edge of their seats without the use of animal acts.
This year’s theme, “Game On!,” transforms the Big Top into a vibrant playground inspired by classic board games, complete with checkerboard acrobatics, aerial chess queens, candy-colored juggling, and playful clown antics that capture the spirit of childhood fun and imagination. With a new original score and direction from Fritz Grobe, a veteran performer and creative director, this year’s show promises surprises and non-stop entertainment in true Smirkus style.
The tour, which spans 65 shows across four states and 15 towns over 50 days, is a massive effort involving 23 support vehicles and more than 80 people, including performers, coaches, cooks, and crew. Each summer, Circus Smirkus performs for around 35,000 people, bringing joy and inspiration to communities throughout New England.
When Circus Smirkus rolls into town, it’s always “Game On!”
For a complete schedule and to purchase tickets, visit: smirkus.org.
