Imagine The Greatest Showman, one of my all-time favorite movies, taking center stage at The Shops at Perry Crossing. This dream is practically reality this fall as The Vendardos Circus performs incredible, animal-free acts combined with a Broadway Musical-style format.

The show, which debuted at the Los Angeles County Fair in 2014, has been dubbed, "The American Circus with the Heart of a Broadway Show." 

A Cast to Brag About Kevin Venardos of The Venardos Circus (Photo courtesy of The Venardos Circus)

The brain-child of former Ringling Bros. Ringmaster Kevin Venardos, the Venardos Circus will perform under the lights in Plainfield in an all-new, larger tent constructed by one of the most incredible tent makers in Italy. This unforgettable experience will be held Sept. 21 through Oct. 1.

The moment you arrive at the big top, you'll be transported back to the memorable days of the traveling circus with the "Let's Build a Dream" tour.

Talent, consisting of aerialists, acrobats, juggling, balancing, comedy, daredevilry, magic and musical production has been hand-selected from around the world to perform right before your eyes. Tickets start at $16.95, depending on the location of the seats in relation to the stage.

It's Show Time The Vendardos Circus cast (Photo courtesy of The Vendardos Circus)

On the day of the circus, doors open one hour before showtime. Attendees will bring a printed or digital copy of the ticket emailed to them with a unique ticket barcode on their smartphone for scanning.

They should arrive early to find the perfect seats, as the circus offers general admission. 

To properly accommodate all of the VIP and Premium families, the Venardos Circus pre-plans a seating map to ensure that all groups can sit together regardless of when everyone arrives.

While waiting for the main event to begin, circusgoers can enjoy pre-show entertainment with a juggling comedian while snacking on classic circus treats made fresh daily, such as popcorn, cotton candy and homemade all-natural pink lemonade.

 

Better than Ever Circus Acts Take the Big Top at The Venardos Circus (Photo courtesy of The Venardos Circus)

The 90-minute main event, with a brief intermission, has made a few changes this year to accommodate the audience. They are unveiling a new seating layout, Ringmaster VIP Experience and new acts mixed with old favorites.

The Ringmaster VIP Experience will make a day at the circus extra special.  A member of the cast will escort VIP guests to their stage-side, cushioned seats. VIPs will find a circus goodie bag for each person in the group. 

With the show only performing for two weeks, the circus is expected to sell out online in advance. Tickets may only be purchased online, so no tickets are available for purchase at the show. Get your tickets early, before it's too late. 

The combination of circus performers and Broadway Musical-style promises to be a memory that your friends and family will cherish for years to come.