REVIEW
Run Away With the Circus!
American Crown Circus & Circo Osorio
Runs until Aug. 5
St. Albert Centre Mall
375 St. Albert Trail
Admission: $25 (ages 11 plus). Each adult ticket provides one free child admission. Additional child tickets are $10. Cash at door or online at americancrowncircus.com
This is the first year American Crown Circus & Circo Osorio has parked its Big Top in St. Albert. And judging by the packed house's cheers and applause during its debut on Thursday night, it was a hit.
This touring show based in Las Vegas grew out of the Osorio family’s four-generation dynasty of circus performers. And the robust family ties are evident throughout starting with Roberto Osorio, the flamboyant ringmaster who strode on stage wearing dazzling costumes Elton John would enjoy sharing.
The entire two-hour (includes intermission) show blends old-fashioned jaw dropping, dangerous stunts with a sort of futuristic, psychedelic vibe.
These folks are not just expert soloists. They are an ensemble of impressive athletes who have spent years polishing risky acts that elicit gasps and wild applause.
In one of the show’s flashiest performances, Eduardo first appears juggling up to five silver bowling pins and later steps into the arena as Lazerman.
Lazerman is truly spectacular. Attired in an Iron Man costume and mask, and shrouded in fog, Eduardo appears to split, reattach and fire lasers in all directions.
Jessica, a lovely Argentinean beauty, is the troupe’s daring high-flying aerialist. Without a net, the single trapeze artist shimmies up a rope that appeares to touch the tent ceiling, and performs breath-taking flips, twirls and somersaults to fiery music.
The Dragmir Troop showcases gymnastics at its best through teeterboard artistry. One member of the troop would jump onto a teeterboard while their partner at the other end sails through the air executing flips and landing in a chair.
The Belarus Triple Eagles roll into sight inside the German wheel, showcasing a series of fluid acrobatic moves whirling and twirling in both upright and angled positions.
Tying all the individual acts together are tons of physical clown comedy from Chilean super clown, Palotin, and his cohort, the overly patient Tabitha.
Between playing tennis/ping pong with his butt and teaching audience members to make music with odds and ends, the mischievous red-nosed Palotin elicited roars of laughter from the all ages crowd.
This is a show where you enter wondering tentatively what might happen and leave with a big grin on your face. But the circus’s real accomplishment is bringing people together as one big, happy family – not something you see every day.
The Big Top is located at St. Albert Centre Mall. Performances are Friday at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday at 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Monday at 7 p.m.
Gate payment is cash only. A cash machine is on site for anyone who has brought a credit card or debit card.
