MARC welcomes circus this week
May 13—They don't skate, but the pigs performing this week at Meadville Area Recreation Complex (MARC) are still pretty talented — talented enough to perform during multiple seasons of "America's Got Talent."
"The pig that got a kiss from Heidi Klum will be performing with all of his barnyard friends," said Eric Scott, business director for Loomis Bros. Circus. "We'll have high-flying acrobats, elephants, tigers, horses, camels, zebras and dogs. It's a full zoo of performing animals."
The circus is coming to town for six performances over three days, beginning Thursday and continuing through Saturday. Spectators should expect an old-fashioned show updated for today's generation, according to Scott.
"Loomis Brothers is the last circus remaining that tours with animals and a live band," he said.
Among the highlights will be Cousin Grumpy's Pork Chop Revue, including Oink, the singing pig. Scott said the live band would also feature Logan Evan Thomas, best known for his work with Postmodern Jukebox, a band that has earned a large online following with its performances of contemporary hits in vintage styles.
MARC officials were excited about the return of the circus, which also performed in Meadville last year.
"I think it's going to be a great thing," said Duane Koller, who chairs the board that oversees the facility.
Executive Director Aaron Rekich expected a busy three days at the MARC. When Loomis Bros. Circus came to Meadville for the first time last year, the six performances drew a total of about 2,000 spectators.
"They were really welcomed by the community," he added. "As they were pulling out, they were like, 'Hey, let's set a date for next year.'"
The three-ring circus will take over the floor of the George S. DeArment Ice Arena with seating set up on the rink floor as well.
"It is a traditional circus, and it's very entertaining not just for kids but for adults," Rekich said. "This is a pretty big act for Meadville."
The timing of the shows also makes for an unofficial summer kickoff for kids counting the days until the last day of school, according to Rekich. The circus coming to town also sets the stage for a busy summer at the MARC, which will be celebrating its 50th anniversary.
"We have a ton of events coming up here," Rekich said.
You can go
Loomis Bros. Circus will perform at Meadville Area Recreation Complex. General admission tickets for adults are $30 and come with free admission for two children between 2 and 12 years old. Children under 2 are admitted for free. Tickets can be purchased at the MARC beginning one hour prior to showtimes or online at loomiscircus.com. Shows are nearly two hours and take place Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Friday at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m.; and Saturday at 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m.
Mike Crowley can be reached at (814) 724-6370 or by email at mcrowley@meadvilletribune.com.
