Circus returns to Addison for second year of thrills

Less than a week before students return to the halls of Indian Trail Junior High in Addison, a different group will be taking over the school.

These newcomers, tough, aren't preteens.

They're performers from the Carson and Barnes Circus, the “Biggest Big Top in North America,” presented by the Village of Addison.

“It gives adults a chance to act like a kid and go with their kids to see some of these animals up close that they would never get to see otherwise,” Mayor Larry Hartwig said.

The group will offer seven shows Friday, Aug. 19, through Sunday, Aug. 21, at Indian Trail Junior High School, 222 N. Kennedy Drive.

“It's everything you think of with a circus,” said Doree Krage, assistant director of community relations for the village.

Last year the Medinah Shriners approached the village with an irresistible offer. Having just moved its headquarters to Addison the group didn't “have the manpower to do their own circus,” Krage said.

So officials took a chance and co-sponsored the event to bring the Big Top to town.

“I really didn't know what to expect last year and I just loved it,” Krage said.

Although the Shriners are no longer involved with the event, the Carson and Barnes Circus still promises to provide some jaw-dropping thrills and family fun.

“It worked out so well for everyone last year we decided to continue doing it,” Krage said.

Organizers urge those planning to attend the circus to purchase tickets in advance to ensure a seat.

SuperSaver tickets are available before any of the seven shows for $10 each or $25 for two adults and three children. Tickets also may be purchased at the gate for $22 for adults and $10 for kids.

A prepaid ticket may be used at any of the seven shows, a change from last year's event.

SuperSaver tickets also will be sold through a number of churches and service organizations from not only Addison but also Elmhurst, Bensenville and Wood Dale. A portion of the ticket price will then be donated back to the local group.

“They really, really do a fantastic show,” Krage said. “And there's a lot to do before and after the show.”

As well as the main performance, Carson and Barnes Circus offers activities such as elephant and pony rides.

Carson & Barnes Circus in Addison

<B>When: </B>4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Friday; 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. Sunday

<B>Where: </B>Indian Trail Junior High School, 222 N. Kennedy Drive, Addison

<B>Cost:</B> $22 adults, $10 children

<B>Info:</B> <a href="http://addisonadvantage.org/events/circus.shtml">http://addisonadvantage.org/events/circus.shtml</a>

<B>Tickets help organizations</B>

This year, officials behind Addison's circus are urging residents to buy their tickets early. For every ticket sold in advance, a portion of the price will be donated to the local organization that sold the Carson and Barnes SuperSaver ticket. Participating groups include: Addison Center for the Arts, Addison Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Addison Trail High School Cheerleaders; Addison Trail Theatre Boosters; District 4 Educational Foundation; Kiwanis Club of Addison; Knights of Columbus; Parks & Recreation Foundation; St. Philip; and Women's Club of Addison