SIDEWALKS’ Opal goes to the circus for the first time in over 20 years. She gives us her thoughts on “The Greatest Show on Earth.”
Walking into the Cow Palace arena (in San Francisco, CA), I was immediately blown away by the colorful spotlights and costumes. The performers were all dressed in outfits that rival those of “Glee” or “High School Musical.” Not having been to the Ringling Brothers Circus in over 20 years, it was almost a completely new experience. Needless to say, I felt like I was five years old all over again. “Built to Amaze“ is quite an accurate slogan.
I was immediately engrossed in the show. It moved fluidly with non-stop entertainment! One act after another, there was never a moment of boredom. Two hilarious jesters, Alex and Irina Emelin, kept the show moving along. These talented performers left the audience spell-bound with a variety of acts that included rabbits, a snake, and poodles. I was amazed at their ability to engage the audience and even incorporate them into their routines. They were the glue that held the show together.
The tiger show with circus performer, Tabayara Antonio Maluenda de Campos “Taba,” immediately made me jump with fear and excitement. While tigers are typically frightening to me, I was really anxious to see the show. Taba was spectacular with the show’s synchronization and uniqueness. In one part, the tigers simultaneously stood on their paws and in another part they sat one at a time in a row as he called them each by name. Apparently, he has a genuine love and kinship for his furry team. It was the first time that I had ever seen a human kiss a tiger on the mouth-and Taba kissed four in a row! I thoroughly enjoyed watching Taba and his tigers.
One of the fascinating performances that I have ever seen was the hand-balancing and contortion artists. Duo Fusion and Duo Solys are two married couples that create gravity defying shapes and forms while connecting their bodies. They moved seamlessly with one another and are extremely flexible. The jaw-dropping factor occurred when either team created a shape that required woman to hold the weight of the man. One man used his arms to hold his body weight on the woman’s back and the other stood on the woman’s legs. They were all stronger than body builders and wrestlers combined, in my opinion. It was truly unique!
Other acts included high-wire stunts, elephant stunts, a trampoline group, acrobatic tumblers, and a human cannon ball; amongst others. The kids around the arena were so excited and entertained! No matter the age, everyone seemed to be enthusiastically entertained at one point or another. Not knowing what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised with how much fun I had. I caught myself dancing, smiling, and singing. I was not alone as I saw other adults having just as much fun as myself.
While I don’t remember seeing the show at five, I will never forget this Ringling Brothers performance! It was truly remarkable, and I hope that this time won’t be the last. I would highly recommend it for any family looking for a guaranteed good time. It is non-stop fun for everyone! Even if you think that you’ve seen it all, I am sure that you will see an act in this show that will blow you away!
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s Built To Amaze!℠, the 143rd edition of the Greatest Show On Earth, is currently on tour throughout the United States.
