
The Big Apple Circus is back at Lincoln Center with a reimagined, reinvented and reinvigorated show for the 2021-2022 season! It felt so wonderful to be back to live, in-person, family entertainment during these pandemic times as we relished in one of our favorite annual family traditions.
Here’s a few reasons why families should see the Big Apple Circus before this edition disappears on Jan. 30, 2022:

1. Be dazzled by The Wallenda Family on the high wire
Nik Wallenda is the most famous high wire artist in the world. He’s walked a tightrope stretched over Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon, and even Times Square! It was an electrifying thrill to have Wallenda and his family do what they do best — slink across the high wire effortlessly as they do tricks and even ride a bicycle. During the finale, Wallenda surprised (no spoilers) everyone and brought the audience to their feet.
2. Every seat feels make you feel like circus VIP
The intimate, ringside seats are in the middle of the action so every guest feels like they’re an integral part of the special performance. Regardless of where you sit in the theater for this one-ring extravaganza, you’ll be less than 50 feet from the awe-inspiring acts. You’ll be able to see the sweat on the performer’s faces, hear high wire performers communicate during routines, and smile with surprise as a clown brushes by your seat.
3. Near-death underwater tank escape
This was the most non-traditional Big Apple Circus act based on our past experiences, but no less mesmerizing. America’s Got Talent escape artist Matt Johnson had the audience cringing with fear and audibly gasping during this spectacle. Defying death, Johnson unlocked his hands from handcuffs, holding his breath far beyond two minutes while submerged in a water tank. I was on the edge of my seat with my heart pounding during this Houdini style stunt. Many of us attend the circus to see astounding, dangerous feats and this act delivered.
4. Cute dog tricks bring the house down
You expect animal acts when attending the circus. The most delightful, surprising, all-the-feels moments occurred during Diana Vedyashkina’s dog act. This talented troupe of adorable dachshunds danced, jumped, played limbo, and performed other dazzling tricks. Sure, they were persuaded by the treats in their trainer’s pouch, but our family was loving every minute of this cuteness overload.

5. Yes, we felt safe at the Big Apple Circus
Most families want to understand if it’s safe to return to these types of in-person experiences. We felt safe. Guests age 12 and older are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination and they did a thorough check upon entry. Fully vaccinated guests are not required to wear a mask. Everyone else is required to wear a mask while at the Big Apple Circus, except while actively eating or drinking. Understandably, due to the pandemic, the Big Apple Circus didn’t provide audience members opportunities to meet, greet and engage with the performers as in years past.
I was struck by the recurring theme and messaging — “MAKING THE IMPOSSIBLE, POSSIBLE!” — during the performance. Nik Wallenda spoke openly about chasing and fulfilling his lifelong dream of owning his own circus. Both he and the ringmaster discussed inspiring others, never giving up, and pursuing dreams against adversity. Mission accomplished! Wallenda recently became an owner of the Big Apple Circus!

Overall, the Big Apple Circus delivered on laughs, unbelievable acts and loads of family fun. We missed having a flying trapeze act as in years past, but our family loved it and are planning to be back again next year.
The Big Apple Circus will be at Lincoln Center through Jan. 30, 2021. To purchase tickets and learn more about the award-winning show, visit www.BigAppleCircus.com.
DISCLOSURE: NYC Dads Group received complimentary family passes to attend the Big Apple Circus. The opinions and experiences expressed in this post are authentic and our own.
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