On Oct. 25, 1891, the John Robinson Circus arrived to Asheville, wowing citizens with its trapeze artists, menagerie and musical acts.
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On Oct. 25, 1891, the John Robinson Circus arrived to Asheville, wowing citizens with its trapeze artists, menagerie and musical acts.
ASHEVILLE, NC
“And amid the gloom and doom, the River District provided entertainment venues for the struggling masses. The big excitement was when, from time to time, a circus came to town and pitched its big tent in one of several large, flat lots along the riverbanks.”
This year, more than 35 performers will take the stage, and workshops are geared toward newcomers and old hats alike. (Aerial art with Sadie Hawkins and beginner ukulele with Mab, Just Mab are just two of the options for those looking to take a class.)
“If you want to see exotic animals, visit an Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited zoo, and if you want the thrill of a circus, there are many, such as Cirque du Soleil, that do not use exotic animals. “
After the U.S. Cellular Center decided to prohibit wild and exotic animal performances in January, the Asheville City Council decided to consider prohibiting these types of events from all city venues. A revision to the city’s animal ordinance, banning circuses and other wild animal entertainment, was passed at the Tuesday, July 28 meeting.
Parts circus, funk collective and marching band, the 20-piece outfit blends party-ready music with dance, gymnastics and enviable attire.
Rich Risbridger, 38, circus performer and yoga instructor, inspires a playful attitude in his yoga classes. Here, he demonstrates full Hanumanasana in downtown Asheville. This is the eighth post in the yoga series by freelance writer Kate Lundquist.