The Big Top Is Coming to West Orange

Forget all your troubles and this dreary weather and smile — the circus is coming to town. That's right, to West Orange! On Wednesday, June 1, the Big Top will be pitched off Northfield and Prospect Avenues, when the Zerbini Family Circus comes for three performances at Blessed Pope John XXIII Academy.  

With clowns, acrobats, jugglers and even a buffalo act, it promises to be fun and affordable entertainment for young and old alike. A "Midway" will feature camel and pony rides, a ball pit and giant slide for the active and adventurous, plus old-fashioned treats like cotton candy, popcorn and snow cones.

I remember as a child going to the circus at the West Orange Armory on Pleasant Valley Way and how exciting the experience was.  Most distinctly I recall the acrobats performing stunts while riding horses bareback and the madcap clowns, as well as the smell of popcorn and sawdust underfoot.

I don't think a circus has pitched its tent in town for awhile, with the Cole Brothers Circus moving to neighboring Livingston some years ago. But Pope John Principal Lynda Wright thought it was time to bring one back.

"The circus seemed like a great idea when I was approached by the Zerbinis," she said. "With the construction of our new gym complete, we can now host more family-focused events, both indoors and out. We're thrilled to be able to offer everyone in West Orange an opportunity to get together and have a good time without having to travel a distance or spend a great deal of money."

You may not be familiar with the Zerbini Family Circus, but Christy Duff, West Orange resident and mother of three boys, said her family knows it well. "My family and I have seen the Zerbini Bros. Circus two years in a row at the Fourth of July festivities in Maplewood," said Christy. "Our boys enjoyed the circus — it was energetic, funny and entertaining. We recommend taking your family and plan to go again this year!"

Christy is not alone in her praise of the Zerbinis, who have been entertaining families for eight generations. A quick review of the Zerbini Family Circus Facebook page’s reviews section found more than 20 five-star reviews of their show.

Perhaps best of all is the cost. Three performances are scheduled in the 800-seat tent. At 10:30 a.m. is a one-hour preview performance for seniors and children at a discounted rate of $5. The evening shows at 5:30 & 7:30 p.m. cost $12 for adults and $10 for children ages 3 – 14 (under three are free). Midway activities are an additional fee.

Tickets may be purchased at the gate or prior to the event at Blessed Pope John XXIII Academy. Discount coupons for the evening performances also are available at the school, which provide $2 off per ticket. (Call (973) 731-3503 for more information.)  Net proceeds of the event will support the operation of the school and its extra-curricular activities.

At these prices, I may bring my whole family. It's certainly a great opportunity for West Orange families to have an old-fashioned good time.  Hope to see you there!

Clare Silvestri Krakoviak is co-president of the Blessed Pope John XXIII Academy Home School Association.