Circus comes to Jordan Center

The visiting team at The Bryce Jordan Center this weekend will be a three-ring circus complete with animals, clowns and an international performance corps.

The Royal Hanneford Circus will perform at 7 p.m. today, and 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. tomorrow at the center.

The circus group, which is over 300 years old, invites spectators to "look at a piece of history," said Bernie Punt, director of public relations for the center. The group traces their roots back to Edwin Hanneford, a British foot juggler asked to perform for King George III. The Hanneford family grew into a circus troupe in 1807 and has since evolved into a troupe the size and caliber of the famous Ringling Brothers circus.

This weekend's performance will mark the troupe's third visit to the area. Since its last visit in May 1997, the troupe has gained new talents from Africa and Russia, among other countries, and has added many new acts to the show.

Circus-goers will see lions, tigers, elephants, equestrian performances, clowns, jugglers and "many aerial extravaganzas," Punt said, including acrobatics and trapeze and high-wire stunts.

Tickets can be purchased at the Bryce Jordan Ticket Center or by calling 865-5555. Prices are $11 to $13 for adults and $9 to $11 for children 12 and under. One dollar from every ticket sold will be donated to the Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon Four Diamonds Fund.

--by Kristen Pyle