Chamber brings circus to T. Falls

Thompson Falls Chamber of Commerce is ecstatic to announce the return of the “Big Top.” The circus is returning to Sanders County as Culpepper & Merriweather (C&M) have agreed to entertain young and old on Wednesday, June 19 at the Thompson Falls High School lower lot, 601 Golf Street.

Two 90-minute shows, starting at 5:00 and 7:30 p.m., will feature “America’s favorite old-fashioned big top circus,” according to C&M, now on their 33rd year of performing. “Our performers are sure to amaze, delight and entertain audience members of all ages beyond your wildest imagination.”

Senses will be tantalized by Miss Simone the trapeze artist, Miss Paulina’s proud “Big & Little” ponies, The Arlise Troupe performing on unicycles, Natalie’s American Eskimo Escapades, Miss Georgia the flexible lady, The Wheel of Destiny & Tight Rope by The Perez Family, Jungle Cats, Soloman, Delilah & Frances and original music composed by Matt Margucci from Los Angeles.

A free show and tour of the Big Top will be given between 9:30 and 10 a.m. the morning of performance day as the circus sets-up for the big show. “In recent years, the tent raising and morning tour has become a popular program for families and interested community members,” C&M commented. “It is presented in a way everyone, young and old, can learn many interesting facts about the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus family.”

During the morning demonstration, circus personnel will discuss hygiene, grooming and verterinary care given to their animals. They will also talk about the history of their show, facts about their performers, and give attendants the opportunity to meet “Circus Family” animals and people up close and personal.

Ticket sales and pre-show events will begin at 4:00 p.m. on June 19. Midway entertainment will include pony rides, moonbounce, concessions and more.

Tickets can be purchased in advance for a discounted price at Black Bear Coffee House, Two Rivers Grille, D&D Liquor, First Security Bank (Plains and Thompson Falls) and Simple Simon’s Pizza. Advanced tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for children ages 2 to 12 and seniors (65 and over). Children under 2 years attend for free. The day of show ticket sales increase to $15 for adults and $8 for seniors and children. For more information on the show or ticket sales, call (866) BIG TOP6. Phones will be answered until 3:00 p.m. on weekdays, prior to show day.

C&M has been featured on National Geographic’s Explorer TV series, Entertainment Tonight, The Los Angeles Times, THe Chicago Tribune, Arizona Highways Magaine, A&E Special: Under the Big Top and Nickelodeon’s On the Road with Circus Kids.