Sign in Subscribe
Galleries

High-Flying Circus Feats Entertain Under the Big Top

High-Flying Circus Feats Entertain Under the Big Top
The multi-skilled Simone Key — who has been performing in circuses her entire life — served as circus ringleader and emcee, trapeze artist, fire-eater and strongman at the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus that came to the Vilas County Fairgrounds July 4. She is also part owner of the show, which bills itself as "America's last remaining big-top circus." (Photos By Michelle Drew)

Circus performers pulled double- and even triple-duty during performances, selling concessions and performing multiple amazing feats for viewers. Two performances were held July 4, that, in addition to the acts listed above, included a high-flying aerial silks performance by Kaitlyn Chin, comedy bits by Leo the Clown, Trey Key and his two lions (who weren't much in the mood for doing tricks given the day's hot and humid temperatures), hand- and foot-juggling acts by the Macias Family, and tightrope walking and Wheel of Destiny stunts by the Perez Daredevil Duo. Some early risers even attended the tour led by circus staff as they raised the big top Friday morning.

Read next