FL!P Circus is planning to return their big top experience to the parking lot of Westfarms this July.

By Ronni Newton

FL!P Circus, which debuted its show in the Hartford area last September, plans to return from July 12-23 with an all-new performance under their distinctive red and white, air-conditioned, 800-seat tent that will be set up in the parking lot at Westfarms outside of JCPenney, on the Farmington-West Hartford line.

In an announcement, FL!P Circus said this year’s tour, created by the Vazquez family, is specially curated to showcase an incredible and eclectic mix of international human performers in a production intended to appeal to those of all ages. The international acts – none of which includes animals – include acrobatics, dance, comedy, and a lively musical soundtrack performed live by the FL!P Circus Band.

“The art form of circus has been part of America’s entertainment landscape for over 200 years,” the announcement states. “Evoking this great American tradition, Fl!p Circus combines the classic and the contemporary to bring families and friends together for a memorable experience.”

Brazil’s favorite clown, Bubi Guiner, will lead the international show this year, with the U.S. premiere of his classic comedic routines and side-splitting antics.

Hasan Ansari. Courtesy photo

Performers include Hasan Ansari, of India, performing daring and rarely-seen acrobatic feats on the Pole Mallakhamb, and Anastasia & Misha, from Ukraine, who will present a “stunningly synchronized and poetic presentation of dance and acrobatics.”

While the performances are new to the production, the circus is a long-standing family tradition for some of the performers, including fifth-generation performer Pavel Valla Bertini, from the Czech Republic, whose unicycle skills will keep audiences on the edge of their seats, and Alexa Vazquez, a fourth-generation performer, who will dazzle with a hula hoop display.

Pavel Valla Bertini. Courtey photo

The Bingo Troupe, from Ukraine, will entertain with an electrifying mix of dance and acrobatics, and the Reyes Brothers, of Chile, will demonstrate their amazing and fast-paced juggling skills.

No seat is more than 50 feet from the ring, and those in the front row should not be surprised to be asked to join performers in the ring. A concession stand will offer a variety of treats to add to the experience.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. on weekdays; at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. on Saturdays; and noon, 3 p.m., and 6 p.m. on Sundays.

For more information or to purchase tickets for the Westfarms production click here. Tickets start at $30 (for children) and $50 for adults with available military, senior, and handicapped discounts.

Additional information can also be found at www.FlipCircus.com. Tickets will also be available in person at the box office during each engagement.

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