Review: THE BIG APPLE CIRCUS at The National Harbor

THE BIG APPLE CIRCUS is stopping at the National Harbor during its historic 40th anniversary season, with an aim toward modernizing for contemporary audiences while still maintaining its ethos. THE BIG APPLE CIRCUS (which filed for bankruptcy in 2016 only to make its triumphant return) features global artists, Guinness world record holders, and a famously egalitarian set up-no seat is more than 50 feet from the ring. This circus is something special.

Though my fiancé and I were one of the few adults there without cotton candy eating children in tow, you don't need to be between the ages of 3 and 12 to enjoy THE BIG APPLE CIRCUS. "I didn't realize we would be in an actual tent," my partner exclaimed, with a mix of consternation and excitement, when we entered the big top. Ringmaster Ty McFarlan kicked off the festivities with pomp and circumstance, and I could feel old, forgotten memories of circuses past come rushing back. Children cheered, faces lit up, and the exceptional live orchestra started to play.

The athletes in this production are top notch. Of particular interest are daredevil roller-skaters Dandino & Luciana-two skilled acrobatics with a penchant for spectacle. Maybe even more extraordinary was the contortion act by Elayne Kraymer. Her shocking feats of flexibility are worth the ticket price. The twirling Anastasini Brothers (who broke the World Record for most flips in November) will make you dizzy.

THE BIG APPLE CIRCUS has a vital no wild animals policy, but does feature 16 fabulous ponies and 6 rescue dogs led by circus trainer and presenter Jenny Vidbel. Some jump through hoops, other ride on scooters, and all will make you ooh and ahh. Nik Wallenda and The Fabulous Wallendas close the show with a seven-person high-wire pyramid.

This BIG APPLE CIRCUS in colorful, full of life, and the perfect family outing for those in the DC area with children (or for those who are particularly young at heart). This 40th anniversary season is directed by Mark Longeran with choreography and associate direction by Antoinette DiPietropolo and music direction by Rob Slowik.

For ticket information, visit www.BigAppleCircus.com. Tickets range in price from $27.50-$109 for VIP ringside seats. Group tickets start at $17.50. Performances run March 8-April 1, 2018.

Running time: Approximately 2 hours with one intermission