“Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls of ALL ages – welcome to the 67th Annual Aleppo Shriners Circus” was the cry heard rising up in the auditorium recently. From Wednesday, April 18, through Sunday, April 22, 2018, Illustrious Harlan L. Woods, Jr., the Aleppo Shriners and the Royal Hanneford Circus presented twelve spectacular shows that were fun-filled and enjoyable to our public audience and for Aleppo Shriners and their families. Once again under the able direction of the Circus Chairman, Noble Roger Metcalfe, and Circus Coordinator, Noble Bruce Dickey, and their committee, this year’s edition brought new surprises in the form of the Big Top and its three rings of fun-filled excitement arising from the auditorium floor.
After the introductions for each show; the National Anthem was presented by Stephanie Brackett. Ringmaster Saturn Garcia welcomed one and all to this year’s circus, and kept the performances on theme for our many loyal patrons as he introduced this year’s program. The circus overture was an Opening Dance featuring the Royal Hanneford Dancers.
The ferociousness of the circus Tigers was presented by Niche who made their debut performance as the leading act. Circus animals from around the world graced the center ring as camels, zebras, and ponies went through their performances.
The Wheel of Destiny excited all, as did the talented juggling artistry that was performed in the three rings by Baylee, Ramalio, and Antonio.
The Ayalo Duo demonstrated their balance and dexterity on the Perch Pole, and the aerial performance, “Our World” featured Victor Kim and Mariana with Eric, Carlos, and the Aerial Beauties.
All were in amazement as the Smirnov Duo magically transformed the costumes right in the center ring. Once again, the Trampoline Wall was back by popular demand, as the man performers twisted, tumbled, and jumped to the delight of all.
During the intermission, patrons were entertained with animal rides, moon bounces, and face painting by the circus performers. At each show the Circus Committee presented the grand prize of a stuffed tiger to a lucky winner who had purchased the marked program book.
The second half of the show opened with the acrobatic gymnastic dexterity of the Chaotic’s Russian Swing. Incredible balancing and wire techniques were on display presented by Victoria, Owen, and Martinelli.
As always, the Aleppo Shrine Circus Clowns performed their skit to the delight of all.
To the tune of “The Flintstone’s,” the Bedrock Yabba, Daba, Doo Elephants and their performers came out to the pleasure of all as they graced the rings of the circus.
Back by popular demand, the Motorcycle Thrill Riders performed their revolutions in the Globe of Death.
The grand finale consisted of all the circus performers marching out into the rings to the applause of the appreciative crowds.
As in the past, the Aleppo Uniformed Units, Shrine Clubs, members and a great array of volunteers provided staffing in various areas for the kitchen staff, parking control, box office, tickets sales and collection, safety and ushering, front hall concessions, novelty sales, circus food court, popcorn, hawker assistance, animal rides, face painting, fried dough, lighting, financing, committee duties, and overall circus activities and assistance.
The Circus Committee extends a big THANK YOU to all our faithful circus volunteers – if it wasn’t for your tireless efforts, we could not have had such a successful event.
The performances were well attended this year; and we are happy to report that a successful circus was enjoyed by one and all! If you were there, we hope that you had an entertaining time; if you were not – remember to mark the dates in your calendar now for the 2019 performances.
