Midnight Circus in the Parks is coming to Ridge Park for four shows on Sept. 29 and 30. The event features a thrilling high-flying assortment of acrobats, aerialists, clowns, contortionists and even a dog. Ridge Park, located at 96th and Longwood Drive, is one of nine Chicago Park District Parks that will showcase the Midnight Circus under a little big top tent this summer and fall.
Mary-Jo Viero, President of the Ridge Park Advisory Council (RPAC), said the circus’s presence is a huge win for the neighborhood and credits Ald. Matt O’Shea with bringing it to Ridge Park. Midnight Circus in the Parks performed at Mt. Greenwood Park in 2011.
Proceeds from the local shows will be used for improvements at Ridge Park. Earlier this year, the house received a new roof and new windows are slated for later this year.
Volunteers with RPAC are working to promote the shows and sell ads in the program book, which will be distributed at all 28 performances across the city, allowing advertisers to reach a wide audience. The deadline to submit ads is Aug. 25. For information, contact Viero, mjviero@yahoo.com. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Midnight Circus in the Parks is an eclectic ensemble of artists that brings world class contemporary circus performances to communities throughout Chicago. Since 2007, the shows have drawn over 100,000 attendees and raised over $1 million for local park improvements.
Midnight Circus will perform two shows each day Ridge Park, 2 and 5 p.m. General admission, $22; groups, $20; and children under age two, free. Tickets and information: midnightcircus.net.
