Big Apple Circus to return to New York this holiday season

The theme of this year's circus is Hometown Playground, and it is the latest iteration of the annual family show that's appeared in the city since 1977.

The circus is back in town! The Big Apple Circus will return to New York once again this holiday season, playing a limited engagement from November 8 to January 5.

The theme of this year's Big Apple Circus is Hometown Playground, with acts inspired by New York City and its five boroughs. The acts, performed by a cast of international circus stars, include "Aerial Orb," a comedy pickpocket routine, "human fountains" who imitate those in the city, and classic acts like trapeze, slack wire, and a dog show.

Hometown Playground is directed by two-time Emmy Award winner Shanda Sawyer. Michael Cohl, chairman of EMC Presents and S2BN Entertainment, is the producer and promoter.

“The talented performers that were hand-selected for this all-new production are ready to dazzle, entertain, and bring the heartbeat of the Big Apple to life underneath our Big Top at Lincoln Center,” said Cohl in a statement. “We are thrilled to usher in this new era of the Big Apple Circus and return to our roots of providing good old-fashioned family fun for audiences of all ages.”

The Big Apple Circus was founded in 1977 by Paul Binder and Michael Christensen. It is a "one-ring circus," a more intimate spectacle than the larger "three-ring circuses" popular in decades past. Each year's circus has a different theme and features renowned circus performers from around the world.

As in past years, the Big Apple Circus will take place under its signature pop-up Big Top in Lincoln Center's Damrosch Park. Learn more about Lincoln Center, including all its entertainment venues and eateries and attractions nearby.

Check back for information on Big Apple Circus tickets on New York Theatre Guide.

Photo credit: Kalle Pikkuharju in the Big Apple Circus. (Photo courtesy of Big Apple Circus)