Originally published August 8, 2022

My family had the pleasure of seeing the new Royal Canadian International Circus show, “Under the European Big Top”, and we had an amazing time! The show is chock-full of exciting acts, with so much variety that it covers the entire spectrum of circus performances. Not only that, but the full experience and atmosphere is welcoming and fun. Here’s 10 things you’ll love about the Royal Canadian International Circus…

1. Wild death-defying tricks!

Ringmaster and resident daredevil Joseph Dominik Bauer makes the audience shriek with both delight and surprise when he performs on the Wheel of Destiny… inside, outside, juggling and even blind-folded!  Plus, they even have a real “human cannonball” in Leo Garcia, who wows the crowd every show.

Joseph Dominik Bauer performs astonishing aerial tricks – with no safety net!

2. Mesmerizing acrobatics and feats of strength!

The high-energy Chicago Boyz Acrobatic Team (who have appeared on “America’s Got Talent”) gets everyone whooping and cheering as they add more and more difficulty to their tricks, as does Nathan Valencia who builds a stack of chairs on which he balances.

The Chicago Boyz show off their amazing coordination and acrobatic skills

3. Spellbinding aerialists and dancers!

The ladies of the circus hold their own when it comes to putting on a beautiful show, with Ashley Ojerda the hair-hang aerialist, Claudia Alvarado the thrilling flying trapeze artist and Guillermina with her fast and fun hula hoop performance.

Ashley Ojerca plays with fire… while hanging from her hair!

4. Hilarious, interactive comedy!

The Human Slinky, plus Piolita & Lucita, get with audience going with laughter and gags. We don’t want to give away the secrets, but it’s lots of fun!

The Human Slinky entertains all audience members, both young and young at heart

5. Amazing rhythmic and musical performances!

RCIC keeps you guessing throughout the show, such as Gimmi Fornaciari singing Italian opera while simultaneously performing difficult balancing moves. What incredible breath control! Then, Argentinian gauchos do a rousing rhythmic drum routine while dancing with boleadoras, ancient weapons that spin incredibly fast.

Gimmi Fornaciari sings and performs tricks… at the same time!

6. Old-school circus nostalgic environment!

There’s something about that big striped tent that gets both kids and adults excited. To catch big shows, you usually have to trek downtown, but instead, RCIC sets up their tents at convenient mall locations in neighbourhoods all around the GTA, such as Etobicoke, Scarborough, Mississauga and Burlington.

The big top is ready for an audience!

7. Festive circus food and souvenirs!

The Royal Canadian International Circus offers sno-cones, cotton candy, popcorn and much more! Plus, they have plenty of toys and souvenirs to remind you of your family outing.

Of course, cotton candy definitely sets the circus mood!

8. Just like Canada, the RCIC cast is a multicultural family!

As Canada is multicultural, so is the Royal Canadian Circus. The acts are from countries around the world, including Argentina, Canada, Colombia, Italy, Mexico, Switzerland, and the United States. This elite troop of performers is made up of multiple circus families who share to their talent under the motto “families perform for families”. Plus, there are no animal performers in the show!

Piolita and his daughter Lucita get interactive with the audience

9. An inclusive family experience!

There’s thrills, chills and excitement for every member of the family. We saw every type of family, from babes in arms to grandparents, having a great time together.

The Royal Canadian International Circus offers entertainment for the whole family

10. BOGO Discount Code!

Lastly, don’t miss out on this great deal: Family Fun Toronto readers can get TWO tickets for the price of ONE by using the discount code FAMILYFUNTORONTO.

Royal Canadian International Circus

Royal Canadian Family Circus 2022 Ontario Schedule:

Etobicoke

When: July 21—24, 2022
Show Times: Thursday 7:00pm, Friday 4:00pm & 7:30pm, Saturday 12:00pm, 4:00pm & 7:30pm, Sunday 1:00pm & 5:00pm
Where: Woodbine Mall & Fantasy Fair, 500 Rexdale Blvd., Etobicoke
Websitewww.royalcanadiancircus.ca

Scarborough

When: July 28—August 7, 2022
Show Times: Monday-Thursday 7:00pm, Friday 4:00pm & 7:30pm, Saturday 12:00pm, 4:00pm & 7:30pm, Sunday 1:00pm & 5:00pm
Where: Bridlewood Mall, 2900 Warden Avenue, Scarborough
Websitewww.royalcanadiancircus.ca

Mississauga

When: August 11—21, 2022
Show Times: Monday-Thursday 7:00pm, Friday 4:00pm & 7:30pm, Saturday 12:00pm, 4:00pm & 7:30pm, Sunday 1:00pm & 5:00pm
Where: Dixie Outlet Mall, 1250 South Service Road, Mississauga
Websitewww.royalcanadiancircus.ca

Burlington

When: August 25—28, 2022
Time: Thursday 7:00pm, Friday 4:00pm & 7:30pm, Saturday 12:00pm, 4:00pm & 7:30pm, Sunday 1:00pm & 5:00pm
Where: Burlington Centre, 777 Guelph Line, Burlington
Websitewww.royalcanadiancircus.ca

Looking for more Concerts & Shows in the GTA? Find them here!