By Kristin Boza
Secure your spot under the “little big top” when Midnight Circus in the Parks returns to Ridge Park, 9625 S. Longwood Dr., on Sat., Sept. 28 and Sun., Sept. 29 with shows at 2 and 5 p.m. both days.
Midnight Circus in the Parks brings together incredibly talented artists and performers from all over the globe to perform 90-minute circus shows right in the heart of a community. Aside from entertaining, the organization’s purpose is to raise money that goes right back into the parks to improve them for everyone in the community. To date, $960,000 has been raised to support the parks in various Chicago neighborhoods.
“We are thrilled to have the Circus come back to Ridge Park this year,” said Mary Jo Viero, Ridge Park Advisory Council (RPAC) President. “The performers are world-class, and the best part is that you are so close to them in the tent. You also don’t have to go downtown to see such a quality show; it’s right here in your own backyard!”
Only nine parks are chosen to host Midnight Circus in the Parks each year; all proceeds from the local event go directly back to Ridge Park. “It’s been a really great program and we’re so lucky to get it at Ridge. It is a really big deal to get the Circus to perform at a park. The RPAC works to advocate for capital improvements at Ridge Park, and we also raise money for the park’s needs, like shower curtains, microphones, new paint, and the newly installed water bottle filling station,” Viero said.
Tickets are $20 for kids (ages 2-16) and seniors, and $25 for adults. Children under two are free, as long as they sit on an adult’s lap. Consider organizing a group — the Circus has been a destination for birthday parties, scout troops, and other large gatherings in past years. Tickets are available at www.EventSprout.com/Event/RidgePark-2019. To volunteer, contact Mary Jo Viero at mjviero@yahoo.com.
