Flying acrobats, gravity-defying stunts, fire breathers, stilt dancers and the coolest clowns around! UniverSoul Circus returns to Jacksonville with its new “Rhythm of the World” production.
The show runs Thursday, April 3, through Sunday, April 20, under the iconic big top tent at the Tailgaters Lot next to Everbank Stadium, 225 Talleyrand Ave., Jacksonville.
Rated as one of Ticketmaster’s “Top 10 Most Requested Family Events,” UniverSoul Circus has entertained more than 25 million people with its unique blend of circus arts, theater and live music. The show spans genres including R&B, Latin, hip hop, jazz, gospel, pop and the infectious beats of world music.
The diverse cast of performers, representing five continents, promises to dazzle and entertain with their acrobatic feats, comedic antics and cultural displays.
Celebrating 31 years as one of America’s top family events, UniverSoul Circus brings together top international performers in a high-energy, interactive spectacle featuring world-class talent, vibrant costumes and music.
“Our ‘Rhythm of the World’ production celebrates not only the world’s top circus performers, but also the unity of people from all walks of life,” said Cedric Walker, founder and CEO of UniverSoul Circus. “It’s a powerful reminder of the universal values of love, respect and togetherness.”
Described as “not your grandfather’s circus,” UniverSoul is known for its engaging and interactive experience, where audience members of all ages become part of the show. Whether it’s participating in a game of Simon Says, showing off dance moves during the Swag Surf or joining the Soul Karaoke spotlight, the crowd is always in the spotlight. Kids are invited to join Fresh the Clowns in the Big Top Kids Dance contest, while everyone enjoys the high-energy music and playful atmosphere.
This year’s show features more than a dozen new acts from around the world, all showcasing their skills under a brand-new, state-of-the-art big top tent from Italy. The tent is equipped with a dynamic audio and lighting system that adds a new layer to the spectacular performances.
Featured performers include the African Dream hoop divers from Addis Abba, Ethiopia; a stylized teeterboard act from Ethiopia; a strong-man, hand-balance duo called Double Vision from the Dominican Republic; a high-flying acrobatic act from Russia called Zhukau Swing; and a dynamic twirling Cuban-Caribbean dance party and roller skating-themed spectacular.
Audience favorites are also returning, including the Caribbean Street Carnival, which features 20-foot dancing puppets, fire-breathing stilt dancers and vibrant folklore characters.
The hip-hop dancing Fresh the Clowns will have the crowd dancing, while the daring Wheel of Death stunt artists will keep everyone on the edge of their seats as they perform heart-stopping flips and dives 60 feet in the air.
Tickets start at $25 and are available at Ticketmaster.com. Performance times are 7 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays; noon, 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturdays; and noon, 3 and 6:30 p.m. on Sundays. Parking, which can be reserved in advance at tailgatersparking.com/upcoming-event, starts at $15.
For more information, ticket prices, show times and schedules, go to universoulcircus.com.
