Broadway-style, animal-free Venardos Circus to perform in Lisle

Posted July 23, 2024 3:53 pm

Submitted by Venardos Circus

The Venardos Circus, an animal-free, family-friendly traveling circus, will perform Aug. 22-Sept. 1 on the grounds of Benedictine University in Lisle. Courtesy of Venardos Circus

The Venardos Circus, a Broadway-style, animal-free circus, will soon be setting up the big top for shows in Lisle.

Performances will be held Aug. 22 through Sept. 1 on the grounds of Benedictine University, 5700 College Road. The 10th anniversary edition of the Venardos Circus cast will celebrate a “Decade of Dreams” under the big top with an all-new experience for guests.

The show will feature music from tours throughout the years but with fresh acts and a re-imagined showcase. The 2024 Venardos Circus is traveling with a new custom-crafted, Italian-made red-and-white striped tent that offers expansive seating for an immersive experience and higher views where artists fly high.

“This is a special season for us as we celebrate the many dreams realized by The Little Circus That Could,” said ringmaster and producer Kevin Venardos. “For those that have supported us from the beginning or others who will see us for the first time, our goal is always to show you what’s possible when you live your dreams, and we promise you ‘A Grand Ol’ Time.’”

Guests will experience a centuries-old tradition reinvented for a new generation. The performers are also the crew on this traveling tour, much like the original circus tradition. There are no animals in Venardos Circus.

The Venardos Circus, an animal-free, family-friendly traveling circus, will perform Aug. 22-Sept. 1 on the grounds of Benedictine University in Lisle. Courtesy of Venardos Circus

Show dates, times

• Thursday, Aug. 22 — 7 p.m.; opening night

• Friday, Aug. 23 — 7 p.m.

• Saturday, Aug. 24 — 2 and 5 p.m.

• Sunday, Aug. 25 — 2 and 5 p.m.

• Wednesday, Aug. 28 — 7 p.m.

• Thursday, Aug. 29 — 7 p.m.

• Friday, Aug. 30 — 7 p.m.

• Saturday, Aug. 31 — 11 a.m., 2 and 5 p.m.

• Sunday, Sept. 1 — 2 and 5 p.m.

Tickets

General admission tickets start at $16.95 for youths younger than age 12 and $27.95 for adults. One babe in arms (age 2 or younger, to sit on an adult’s lap) is admitted free with each paying adult. Premier Gallery and VIP Experience Reserved seating are available.

In the new larger tent, fans will still enjoy the intimate feel and proximity to the performers but with enhanced views of aerial acts due to the taller design of the tent. The VIP Experience will offer assigned seating closest to the stage with guests escorted to their positions and other special experiences. Premier Gallery seating will occupy a multi-tier riser to provide greater visibility. For tickets and information, visit venardoscircus.com.

The Venardos Circus, an animal-free, family-friendly traveling circus, will perform Aug. 22-Sept. 1 on the grounds of Benedictine University in Lisle. Courtesy of Venardos Circus

The 2024 Venardos Circus is traveling with a new custom-crafted, Italian-made red-and-white striped tent that offers expansive seating for an immersive experience and higher views where artists fly high. Courtesy of Venardos Circus

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