We’re Out on the Road
Editor’s Note: This post was written by summer Tour Communications Associate Lila Chafe
After three eventful weeks, Circus Smirkus troupers and staff began the 2022 New England Tour on July 2nd. As we prepared for opening day and gave final notes for each rigging cue, juggling pass, and finale choreography, the show transformed from an exciting idea to a dazzling performance begging to have an audience.
The week before the tour began was packed with rehearsals but amidst the rush of preparing for a 46 show run, still included cherished Smirkus traditions. To celebrate the work of the entire team in Greensboro, we sent our wishes for a safe tour off with lanterns the night before our opening performance. Watching the lanterns glide across the tents, above the forest and eventually beyond our viewpoint was a beautiful representation of the gift of performance art. After our weeks of show creation, we were finally prepared to release it to an audience.
Despite the extremely short amount of time we had to prepare our show, the creative team and troupers were all eager to present their hard work. In his final words to troupers, Troy Wunderle, the Tour Producing Director, exclaimed that the only aspect the show that was missing was an audience. Greensboro did not disappoint, bringing over a thousand people to fill our Big Top for the first time in years.
From young children stepping into the tent for the first time in their lives to loyal Circus Smirkus supporters, the 2022 troupe had an enthusiastic crowd to support them on opening day. A fully masked audience and diligent safety protocols allowed us to open our show again, and we are exceedingly grateful for our audiences that understand the importance of supporting the arts.
In true circus fashion, the moment that the performers finished opening day, they were directed to join the full touring staff in the load out process. Shockingly, the entire Greensboro headquarters was packed up and ready to move across the Northeast by dawn the next morning. Beginning with early warmups on Saturday and not ending until the tent had been packed into trucks, Circus Smirkus leapt into the extreme work that is maintaining a nonprofit traveling circus. We can’t wait to see you on the road!
