Circus Spectacular at NECCA with performances sure to marvel
The New England Center for Circus Arts (NECCA), 1 Town Crier Drive, announces the 16th annual Circus Spectacular, a fundraising production featuring an all-star lineup of international and local talent, on Saturday, March 7, shows at 4 and 7 pm, and Sunday, March 8, shows at 1 and 4 pm.
This year’s event is highlighted by a “circus reunion” as NECCA welcomes special guest ringmaster Eric Micheal Gillett, the singing ringmaster for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey. Gillett, an accomplished cabaret singer, actor, and director of an edition of the Big Apple Circus, will be joined by Bellows Falls native and former Ringling clown Troy Wunderle, presenting a new comedy magic routine.
Adding to the full roster of top tier aerial and acrobatic acts is Joel Baker. An accomplished acrobat and clown, Baker just signed to become the new lead clown for Cirque du Soleil’s “Alegrîa.” Baker will perform a signature blend of clowning and acrobatics at the Circus Spectacular.
The Circus Spectacular, held in NECCA’s Trapezium training facility, will also feature high-flying acts from performers based in Colorado, Georgia, Chicago, Boston, and Montreal, showcasing acts such as swinging trapeze, hula hoops, hair suspension, juggling, aerial hoop, and duo pole.
Every ticket sold supports NECCA’s mission to provide inclusive and financially accessible circus arts training for all ages, from the silver circus (60-plus) to pre-professional youth programs.
The Trapezium will be transformed into a circus theater for this event - chairs get set up on risers, extra equipment is moved out to make way for theatrical lighting, a 35-foot-tall black curtain gets pulled up to create a stage backdrop nearly 80 feet long.
Tickets are available now for this world-class entertainment for the entire family on March 7 (4 and 7 pm) and March 8 (1 and 4 pm); prices $15 to $50. Go to https://necenterforcircusarts.org/about/circus-spectacular/ to purchase tickets. For more information call (802) 254-9780.
