Limelight

An outdoor hula hoop performance 

Photo: Courtesy of Hideaway Circus

A New Kind of Circus is Coming to Town

By Brian Boisvert

After enchanting audiences across the country with their outdoor circus “Stars Above,” Hideaway Circus is back with a sequel that promises to be breathtaking. “Canvas Sky” is the latest production from the innovative company, and it’s coming to Cobb Stadium for multiple performances, July 5-7.

The show features a cast of ten world-class artists who bring a contemporary twist to the classical circus format. At the heart of “Canvas Sky” is a touching narrative that follows a clown’s struggle to find his place within the troupe. It’s a story of friendship, self-acceptance, and the celebration of uniqueness, as the clown learns to embrace his voice with a little help from a friend. This performance is set to take the audience on an uplifting journey of self-discovery.

Brooklyn-based Josh and Lyndsay Aviner, the founders of Hideaway Circus – also known for its dance and multi-media productions – have crafted this all-ages experience with original music and a storyline. The tour began this month and is set to travel to over 60 towns in 22 states over 35 weeks. They have also released over 135 episodes of Hideaway Circus Podcast, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the circus world, featuring interviews with creators, producers, and directors.

The initiative to host the Hideaway Circus was led by Daniel Bowden, owner of Bowdini’s Ice Cream in Springvale, who was profoundly impressed by their performance in Portland a few years ago. He was thrilled when the chance arose to feature them in a summer event for the area. “We are very excited to be able to partner with the Sanford-Springvale Chamber of Commerce to bring this great family-friendly, open air, no-animal circus to our community,” Bowden said.

The circus will feature two evening performances on July 5 and 6 at 7:30 pm, and two afternoon matinees on July 6 and 7 at 4 pm at Cobb Stadium, behind Sanford Pride Elementary School. For accessibility and comfort, there are a range of ticket options. For $25, the general admission ticket invites you to bring your own portable chair or blanket. At $45, the premium reserved seat offers a stress-free experience with a pre-arranged lawn chair and excellent stage views. For an indulgent, one-of-a-kind experience, the $65 VIP seat provides plush seating in the prime center front, ensuring an unparalleled view of the spectacle.

The two-hour show, including a 20-minute intermission, is a family affair requiring all children to be accompanied by an adult and includes special effects, such as fog and strobing lights, and snacks from vintage concession trailers. The outdoor setting calls for weather-appropriate attire. With no cover over the performance area, guests are advised to come prepared with sunscreen, hats, and rain gear.

Tickets are available at https://tinyurl.com/CanvasSkySanford