It’s no exaggeration to say that Baraboo is the center of the circus world. After all, it’s the home of Circus World, which both keeps the history of the circus alive and brings it into the future with its dazzling Big Top Show and other special events.
On the City Cast Madison podcast today, host (and Baraboo’s own) Bianca Martin talks to Circus World’s new attractions director, Scott O’Donnell, about what makes the circus and Circus World such a magical place.
"I never know when the next P.T. Barnum, the next Al Ringling, the next Guy Laliberté, is gonna walk through our doors and they might be three or they might be 30, and this might be the opportunity for that light switch to go off and, and that flame of entrepreneurialship and flame of passion and art form is lit,” O’Donnell said.
One of the things that has kept the circus arts so vibrant is the many different directions that performers can take them. Here’s some places to enjoy the circus arts in Madison, whether you want to see a touring show, enjoy an innovative performance by Madison’s own, or even take a class yourself.
Tiffany Riley and Dick Monday will blow your minds with “Clowning With Heart” on May 16 at Madison Circus Space. (Slappy & Monday)
This space on Winnebago Street offers classes in the circus arts, such as aerial and trapeze work from groups like Flying Trapeze Madison and Novel Motion Circus as well as putting on innovative shows that redefine circus performance, such as July’s “(X)posed” aerial burlesque show.
Many Madisonian’s first encounter with this enchanting troupe is their high-flying performances among the majestic trees at the Orton Park Festival. But they host events and classes all year round – their new show, “Wild Within,” is taking place May 1 and 2.
Circa comes to the Overture Hall stage (or, at least, over the stage) on Feb. 27, 2027. (Photo by Andy Phillipson)
The big stages at Overture Hall and the Capitol Theater always lure in world-class touring circus performers and acrobats. Check out Gravity & Other Myths on Nov. 8, Cirque Alice on Feb. 5 and 6, and Circa on Feb. 27.
Started in Madison in 2002, Wild Rumpus offers classes and camps for kids and adults in juggling, clowning, and other circus arts. They operate out of a spacious theater space in Mazomanie and offer shuttles from Madison for campers. They also put on shows in Madison at locations like MYArts.
