Big Apple Circus Performing Legendarium in Cunningham Park For Next Three Weeks

No need to run away and join the circus, it’s right here. From today until June 16, the Big Apple Circus isn’t clowning around with its dazzling mix of playful pooches, astounding acrobats, ascending aerialists, jocular jugglers and a contortionist who appears to have no backbone. As part of its 35^th anniversary celebration, Big Apple is performing Legendarium, a nostalgic look at the 19^th century, when the circus was born. A ringmaster introduces the acts while recalling pivotal moments in circus history and offering fun facts. (i.e. Frenchman Jules Leotard invented the flying trapeze in 1859, but he is best know for designing the traditional trapeze garment that bears his last name.) The fun takes place under the climate-controlled Big Top, where no seat is more than 50 feet from the ring. Details: Big Apple Circus, Times vary, Cunningham Park, $20-$60.

Photo: Bertrand Guay/Big Apple Circus