When we were invited to Zippos Circus I ummed and ahhed about going. I have not enjoyed a traditional circus act since I was a child – and then that was it, right there, the reason I decided to go… not for me but for Freddie, after all he is a child!
I have been to lots of fantastic ‘grown up’ circus style acts over the past few years and so the traditional circus seemed to take a back seat, could it compete with the likes of Cirque du Soleil, or in fact is it meant to? To be honest another reason that kept me away was a slight uneasy feeling I have about animal acts, so before I went I read their in-depth animal welfare page (the fact that they have one meant that I am not alone). Satisfied that no animals are mistreated and that they are all well looked after off we set (with husband ever-so slightly moaning about having to go to the Circus). When we arrived the parking was good, which meant hubby was a little pleased 🙂
With light sword and candyfloss in hands we were ushered to our seats. I actually started to get rather excited, a sense of nostalgia came across me and I began giggling with the kids at the man in front entertaining the crowds while we waited (more about him shortly).
Introduced by the World’s Greatest Ring Master, Norman Barrette MBE the show began.
Norman Barrette MBE and his budgie act
We were entertained by an assortment of acts: from the famous Rastelli Clowns, who were not as scary as I remember clowns being and were rather funny;
Rastelli Clowns
Strongman ‘Hercules’ who amazed the children when he had a car drive over him; Odka who is so flexible she squeezed herself into a large bottle; jugglers; trapeze artists and more.
Emile Delbosq
The kid’s favourite, and one of mine too, was Emile Delbosq, the entertainment filler, he was extremely entertaining with miming acts and lots of audience participation.
For me the most awe inspiring was actually the horses. I have grown up with horses and never seen six horses perform the way these beautiful Arabian stallions performed for their trainer Summer. They moved with grace in varying directions around the arena and it was literally breath-taking, they looked very happy and extremely well looked after too.
After much watching, laughing, clapping and singing we left Zippos Circus in very happy spirits – even hubby!
If you feel the traditional Zippos Circus might just be a little dated think again, it’s good value all round family fun for adults and children alike, there really is something for everyone.
Zippos Circus has been touring the UK for 25 years. Tickets are from just £6.99 and it is touring the UK until November 2014. Visit their website for dates and to book tickets www.zipposcircus.co.uk
We were invited by Zippo to watch the show and this review is our thoughts of the show.