The Barnum and Bailey Circus

"Get your peanuts, popcorn, and programs!" All the sights and sounds of a true circus echoed loud and clear as I entered the Giant Arena in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The last time I visited a circus I was in high school. Hence, I wasn't sure what exactly to expect during my youthful adventure to the Barnum and Bailey Circus. However, my trip to Hershey and the money for the tickets proved to be well worth my time and cash!

The entire show was creatively connected by a single performer, Bello, the amazing clown. The phenomenal entertainer dazzled the audience as he imitated the specialty acts throughout the show. He could climb and perform on a 30 foot pole, jump and flip on the ring of death, and impressively take the stage with tricks and gymnastic stunts. With his winsome personality and acting skills, he became quite the spell-binding attraction.

The Barnum and Bailey Circus employs many families from around the world who specialize in various stunts. Among these was an Oriental group who performed quite an act of seemingly impossible body movements and group formations. Also, a couple delighted the audience with their unique cannonball stunt. Both man and woman were shot together through a canon at an amazing 65 miles per hour.

Not being a dog lover, I was not too enthused about the dog act. However, this segment of the show proved to be my personal favorite. These dogs were intricately trained. Repeated flips, fetches, turns and jumps marked a truly amazing performance. The tricks, performed in the center ring, were continual which kept viewers very amused! The other animal performances were very impressive as well. The tigers were strikingly obedient to their trainer. He was able to interact with approximately twelve tigers yet hold commanding control at the same time. The horse routines, though not as impressive as the tigers, were very enjoyable. All three rings were filled with horses, and each group performed as one.

What would a circus be without acrobats? The acrobats employed by the B & B Circus performed seamlessly. However, their performance was short lived and very predictable. Nothing struck me as out of the ordinary for an acrobatic routine. This segment of the show was probably my biggest disappointment.

Who says the circus is for kids? The Barnum and Bailey Circus entertained a diverse audience of varying ages. Stunts, tricks, and acts were performed continually, leaving the audience wanting more. The media, lights, costumes, props, and special effects were genuinely something to see. Honestly, I believe I enjoyed the event more as an adult than as a child!