Asheville, N.C. (April, 2014)– The circus is on it’s way to Asheville and it’s bringing something other than elephants. The 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, Emergency Circus, is in the midst of their “Tour to the Rescue,” bringing inspirational circus shows with workshops to children’s wards, senior centers, homeless shelters, and prisons across the country. This all volunteer-run division of Patch Adams’ Gesundheit Institute will be passing through Asheville administering joy to places where health and happiness struggle and are inviting the public to attend the all-ages “Best Medicine Benefit Show” at Toy Boat Community Art Space (101 Fairveiw Road suite B) on May 31st at 7:30pm.
“We believe in the healing power of laughter and empathy to elevate endorphins, relieve stress, build community, and diminish pain,” says Emergency Circus co-founder Clay Mazing.
Dr. Hunter “Patch” Adams, the real-life doctor/clown depicted by Robin Williams in the movie that bears his name, has affiliated the circus into his institute. “The Emergency is- we will not make it if we don’t change the love and circus is the answer. To recreate a world that is loving and joyful and having fun, that’s how simple the answer is.” Dr. Adams adds that “laughter boosts the immune system and helps the body fight off disease, cancer cells as well as viral, bacterial, and other infections. Being happy is the best cure of all diseases.”
The circus shows will feature local talent from the Runaway Circus as well as circus artists from across the country including America’s Got Talent Finalist Special Head, AKA Danny Wolverton, the levitating magician with over 20,000,000 hits on Youtube.
“I want to use the momentum of my AGT fame and my talents and to show those in need that anything is possible; over coming cancer, or going from foster-care to becoming a doctor or president,” says Wolverton.
While most of Emergency Circus’ shows are intended for private audiences in “undercircussed” facilities, the group has booked a public fundraising show at Toy Boat on the 31st of May. They are inviting people of all ages to witness inspirational feats of skill, learn more about their efforts across the world, contribute to the cause, and experience the healing power of laughter for themselves. Admission is by donation ($5-20). Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at emergencyasheville.brownpapertickets.com.
“The world is in a state of emergency,” says Mazing. “We offer what it needs: empathy and inspiration.”
Event Details
What: Emergency Circus: Best Medicine Benefit Show
Where: Toy Boat Toy Boat Toy Boat Community Art Space
When: Saturday, May 31st. 7:30pm
About Emergency Circus:
Composed of members of the New Old Time Chautauqua, Clowns Without Borders, the Sustainable Living Institute, and the Gesundheit Institute, the nonprofit performance troupe Emergency Circus travels to hospitals, nursing homes, prisons and other places where happiness, health, and human connection struggle. The 501(c)3 non-profit teaches workshops and performs inspirational shows for undercircussed communities.
About Gesundheit Institute:
The Gesundheit! Institute, a non-profit healthcare organization chartered under the Nonprofit Corporation Act of the District of Columbia, is a project in holistic medical care based on the belief that one cannot separate the health of the individual from the health of the family, the community, the world, and the health care system itself.
In its 40-year history, Gesundheit has offered care to tens of thousands, given workshops and lectures in over 65 countries, built and supported clinics, schools, and orphanages from El Salvador to Cambodia, and brought the joy of clowning to parts of the world damaged by violence and injustice.
About Toy Boat:
Spacious and versatile, Toy Boat Community Art Space stages diverse performances; hosts rehearsals, classes, and community events; and serves as an event venue for public and private celebrations. With our performance studio ambiance and a snack bar (with liquor license), we’re a comfortable space for recharging, learning something new, and connecting with talented folks. Most of all, Toy Boat is a living, breathing journey for a group of like-minded artists who believe in supporting and promoting the joy of performing arts.
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