FSU Flying High Circus Returns with Halloween Spectacle This October

Florida State University’s Flying High Circus will make a highly anticipated return this October with its 15th annual Halloween Show Series. After a year-long hiatus caused by tornado damage, the circus is set to perform under its new big top from October 17 to October 25, 2024. The family-friendly shows will take place at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, with doors opening one hour prior to each performance.

The Halloween-themed event promises to captivate audiences with a thrilling production featuring flying skeletons and dancing zombies. This marks the circus’s first full performance in its newly constructed tent, which replaces the one destroyed in the tornado.

Excitement Builds for the Halloween Show Series

“This year’s Halloween show series is particularly exciting,” said Jake Radtke, a senior double-majoring in psychology and criminology and a fourth-year cast member. “Many of us have been eagerly looking forward to showcasing everything we have worked on over the past year.”

Director Chad Mathews echoed this sentiment, noting the significance of returning to normal operations after the challenges faced in the past year and a half. “This show feels especially meaningful. Our Halloween show presents something different compared to our traditional performances. The performers really embrace their characters once in costume, and the combination of music, lighting, and effects creates an enjoyable atmosphere,” he stated.

In September, the circus hosted three sold-out sessions during Family Weekend, featuring tent tours, juggling acts, and concessions. The upcoming Halloween Show Series will be its first complete production since April 2024.

Performers Ready to Engage with Audiences

Iris Dahlborg, a junior studying civil and environmental engineering and a third-year performer, expressed her excitement about returning to the stage. “It’s thrilling to see our hard work pay off, both in the effort to rebuild the tent and in showcasing our performances,” she remarked. She highlighted the importance of audience interaction, particularly in clowning, which often involves breaking the fourth wall.

Tickets for the Halloween Show Series are limited, with admission available free for students with an FSU ID and a special discount for faculty and staff. Attendees are advised that only clear bags will be allowed inside the performance tent.

For more information and ticket purchases, interested individuals can visit the official website of the FSU Flying High Circus at circus.fsu.edu.

Supporting the Circus Community

The FSU Flying High Circus relies on community support to thrive. Those interested in contributing can become a circus “Stake” Holder, with donations aiding in student training, costume fabrication, equipment needs, and community outreach initiatives. For further details on supporting the circus for future generations, visit the FSU donation page.

With the return of the Flying High Circus, audiences can look forward to an exciting blend of creativity, skill, and Halloween spirit this October.