The OPENAIR Circus celebrated its 29th year in performance last weekend.

By Melissa E. Pike

Chairperson and teacher for the OPENAIR Circus, Peter Jehlen said, “The OPENAIR Circus is celebrating its 29th year. We’re excited to have so many of our teens staying involved and moving into teacher positions.”

This year’s OPENAIR circus took place on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at Conway Park in Somerville. Rehearsals were scheduled up until Thursday night to prepare all participants for another outstanding performance.

When the clock struck seven on Friday evening the OPENAIR circus came to life for their first presentation of the year. Children ages three to sixteen partook in this incredibly well organized event, dazzling the crowd with the skills they have been training to master throughout the summer.

Acts included Devil Sticks, Poi, Unicycling, Acro-balance, Stage Combat, Stilting, and Baton Twirling. Needless to say, the crowd was in awe at the raw talent showcased at the OPENAIR’s first production this year.

Participants took their bows and curtsies at the closing of Friday’s show and were applauded by friends and family for a marvelous circus performance.

The next two days were filled with three more shows, stunning the crowd once again. All contributors demonstrated courage, enthusiasm, and passion for the arts. It is no surprise that the OPENAIR Circus has become such a long-lasting tradition.