AR-News: (IL - US) The Moscow Circus uses only humans

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Source:  Detroit News 5/21/04


Friday, May 21, 2004

Preview

Moscow Circus puts people in center ring


By Christy L. Breithaupt / Special to The Detroit News


Graceful women slink through webbed ropes suspended high in the air, muscular men balance precariously on steel tubes, and giddy clowns induce a constant state of giggling. This is the world of the Moscow State Circus — a modern, animal-free, entertainment extravaganza that puts the emphasis not on wild beasts, but on raw human talent. 

The circus, which will arrive at the Yak Arena in Wyandotte on Monday, is a crossbreed between traditional circuses such as Ringling Brothers. and futuristic fare such as Cirque Du Soleil. 

The Moscow Circus’ history reaches back more than 200 years, when Catherine the Great commissioned the creation of a modern circus in St. Petersburg, Russia. The circus quickly spread and held a special place in communist Russia. It was a form of entertainment that could be appreciated by all, rich and poor alike, a phenomenon that still holds true. 

“Everyone can enjoy this show,” says producer Cornell “Tuffy” Nicholas. “Because it’s more of an upscale circus, a very diverse crowd comes to the show.” 

The emphasis of the circus is on people (its motto is “People Entertaining People”), and so the circus goes without the typical animal acts. Keeping the money that it would cost to procure and care for such large animals has allowed the circus to hire the best talent in the business, as well as run a clean, tight show, Nicholas says. 

The show includes juggling, balancing acts, contortionists, aerial daredevils, high-wire acts, clowns and much more. 

Not only is the show a change of pace, it’s also meant to be affordable family entertainment. About two weeks before the circus comes to town, coupons for children younger than 12 to get in free will start showing up at schools, local restaurants and grocery stores. 

The coupons are good for up to three children with a paying adult. If you can’t find one, log onto the Web site www.moscowcirus stars.com and print a copy. 

If you miss the circus on Monday, there will be another chance to see it on June 5 and 6 at the University of Detroit Mercy Calihan Hall in Detroit. 

“This has been the best year we’ve ever had,” Nicholas says. “We get standing ovations all the time. It’s a thrilling feeling.” 

Christy L. Breithaupt is a Metro Detroit free-lance reporter.