Big Apple Circus coming to Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi: High flying trapeze artists, juggling acts, spinning ferris wheels and clowning are all going to be part of the fun of the Big Apple Circus, coming to Abu Dhabi this summer.

The circus' 12-day season will start on Friday with a show designed to inspire us to follow our dreams.

The show's creators also said they hoped the production would help children develop a love of simpler things in a day and age when technology had become so prevalent.

Artistic director Guillaume Dufresnoy said: "This show is meant to be an inspiration to children".
 

"We are looking to have them feel a sense of joy and awe, since the circus is usually a child's first theatrical experience," he said. "We want them to understand that dreams can come true, that they can be like the performers.

"We want them to know that this is real, and means much more than computer graphics."

The troupe is set to perform an act which involves riding on a 10m ferris wheel, while performing thrilling routines in mid air — without safety equipment.

Performer Martin Espana said: "Performing in Abu Dhabi is definitely a dream for us".

"As soon as we knew, we told our family and friends that we are coming here.

Adrenaline rush

Fellow performer Nathan Valencia said: "I chose to do this for a career because of the adrenaline rush and being in air. It's something I always wanted to do".

The performer who plays the role of Gordoon the clown said he liked his act because he loved hearing the audience laugh and because he believed this was a state of grace.

Having performed in Cirque du Soleil and at Walt Disney Resorts, the performer said he felt the Abu Dhabi production was going to be a great one for him.

"I have some gags for [the audience], from a toilet paper extravaganza to a hilarious bubble act… It's going to be a real experience, especially when I go into the crowd," he said.

Maisie-Clementine Marsh, 8, who glimpsed a rehearsal, said: "My favourite part was definitely the ferris wheel act, it was amazing".

"I kept thinking that he would fall, especially when he was blind-folded. I really want to come see the whole thing. Her 11-year-old sister Pheobe-Millicent said she enjoyed the Gentleman Juggler.

The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) is offering two tickets for the price of one.

Join the circus

WHAT: Big Apple Circus

WHEN: Friday, July 23 - August 3

WHERE: ADNEC

TIME: 8pm, (doors open at 7.30)

TICKETS: Dh200/Adults, Dh75/Children under 12

With inputs from Mayar Raouf, Staff Reporter