Circus plans to make stop in Russellville

By Staff
Melissa Cason
The Foster Grandparent’s Program is bringing a traditional tent circus to Franklin County on April 19.
Program Director Jessica Latham said Carson &Barnes Circus will present two shows on this date, and the Grandparents program is selling family tickets to the event.
Show times for the circus are set for 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Highlights of the show include the Grand Spectacular Patriotic Parade, which features a salute to America displaying hand made costumes and animal blankets; aerial artistry; canine capers; wire walking wizard; mid-air motorcycles; high wire performers from South America; and much more.
Circus Promoter George Mayleben said the circus would also feature world-renowned Freddy “Alex” Acero as the award-winning King of Circus Comedy.
Carson and Barnes is the world’s largest tent circus, which features a multi-ring format, and seats 2,200 audience members.
Carson &Barnes was founded in 1937 by a father and his two sons. The tradition lives today as the circus travels from place to place.
The tent will be set up below the tennis courts on the Russellville city schools campus.
Tickets will be sold at the gate at $18 for adults and $10 for children.
Latham said the best value is the family tickets. These tickets must be purchased through the Foster Grandparents Program Office before the day of the show.
Latham said there would be a clown costume contest during the circus so children are encouraged to dress up as clowns and become a part of the show.
Latham hopes to bring the circus back to town in the future.
Mayleben said the public would be invited for the raising of the tent that morning.
For more information on how to purchase family tickets, contact the Foster Grandparent’s Office at 256-332-6800.