The circus is coming to town!
A genuine relic from the era of pre-digital entertainment will visit the Perry area this summer when the Culpepper and Merriweather Great Combined Circus raises its tent in Woodward Aug. 16.
Founded in 1985, the Hugo, O.K.-based circus troupe stages two 90-minute performances at each stop, featuring trapeze artists and lion tamers, jugglers and clown, dogs and ponies, high-wire performers and balancing acts and ladies in gorgeous costumes — all under the big tent.
The midway opens one hour before the show. Midway rides include a 22-foot inflatable slide, the moon bounce and pony rides. A concession stand will offer traditional circus treats, such as cotton candy, popcorn and snow cones.
Advance tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for children 2-12. Tickets at the door are $13 for adults and $7 for children.
The one-day-only event begins in the morning with a free tour and tent raising. Youngsters and other interested parties can come to the circus lot location in Woodward about 9:30 a.m and observe how the Big Top is set up.
Woodward Mayor Brian Devick said the exact location for the circus will soon be chosen.
There will also be time in the morning to meet the animal and human performers and learn about life on the road for the troupe, which tours 32 weeks a year, giving about 200 performances across 17 states.
