Under the banner of The Great Moscow Circus, death-defying acts from around the globe are touring Victoria for the first time since 2021, including an extended season in Benalla from Thursday, August 1.
And despite its name, there is no connection between the circus and the Russian government, and there hasn't been for more than 20 years.
The Great Moscow Circus first visited Australia in 1965 under the auspices of the Edgley Organisation and has returned regularly ever since.
When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, the Edgley family purchased trademarks on the ownership of the name and those trademarks remain with the Edgley family and the Weber Circus family today.
The touring company features superstars from Armenia, Ukraine, Brazil, Columbia, Greece, New Zealand and Australia and continues to entertain millions throughout Australia and New Zealand.
This new ‘extreme’ show features daredevil BMX and Pro Scooter riders, hair-raising multi-motorcycle cage riders and a world record acclaimed pole act.
Armenian clown Gagik has been revered as ‘the funniest in the world’, leaving audiences roaring with laughter while the Wheel of Death and electrifying high tricks on the trampoline heighten the extreme theme, leaving audiences gasping in shock.
Several extraordinary aerial acts and a mind-blowing trapeze act with ‘techno colour’ lighting and costuming will also thrill the crowd.
The circus is designed for the whole family to enjoy with daytime and evening performances from August 1-4.
The Big Top will be set up at the Benalla Showgrounds Entertainment Precinct with entry via Cecil St.
For more information and to book tickets go to www.thegreatmoscowcircus.com.au/ visit on Facebook or call 049 667 269.