Big Apple Circus Metamorphosis Review

As the first trapeze artist swung through the air overhead and did a straightforward release and catch, LadyBug leaned over and whispered, “I could do that.” The fact of the matter is that she has done a very similar trick successfully and so I nodded to her and smiled. But the familiarity of the act did nothing to stem her enthusiasm. Instead, it drew her in. And as the act progressed, I knew she was imagining that she would someday be able to do all of the stunts, just as they were performed. Big Apple Circus Metamorphosis mesmerized each of us in different ways. It’s a great family show.

The first thing you notice when you head into the circus is the size of the tent. Unlike the mammoth circus events that are hosted in sports arenas,  Big Apple Circus feels like a show that might pull into town on a train, kicking up dust, and drawing in entertainment-starved families from miles and miles away. It feels like a circus is meant to feel: intimate, cozy, and somewhat magical. And as things progress, the feeling continues as Francesco, the clown, drifts in through the audience looking for his seat. I should add here that if you are a not a fan of audience participation, get seats in the back, but definitely not in the front row or on an aisle!

The circus arts shown in Metamorphosis are familiar and old-school, in the very best sense. You’ll see contortionism, aerials, Rolla Bolla (balancing on cylinders), Diabolo (a juggling act with an object similar to a large yo-yo), Quick Change (quick costume changes), Risley (an acrobat routine where on performer flips the other with his feet), animal acts, and flying trapeze. My kids have done some of those in their circus classes and I know that makes it extra fun for them to see professional acts. My husband is a tougher customer, but he also enjoyed the fast-paced, action-packed show. There was always something happening and it was a lot of fun.

There’s still plenty of time for you to take your family to see Metamorphosis at City Hall Plaza in Boston. It’s in town until May 10th. A few things to know:

• The show runs two hours with a 15 minute intermission.
• There isn’t really a bad seat in the house, so get up front for kids who like to be in the action and choose rear seats for those who like to be a little removed.
• Best spot for parking is the City Center Garage right across the street. It’s $11 on evenings (after 4) and weekends, and you can get an additional $1 off via a discount card they distribute after the show.
• The Big Apple Circus doesn’t sell peanuts, but they do have a few peanut products (Cracker Jacks and M&Ms).
• Autism/sensory performances are available.

Ready to buy your tickets? You can save 20% per order for select performances, use the code APPLE* when buying tickets online at http://www.bigapplecircus.org/  by phone at  888-541-3750, and at the box office.

Disclosure: We received tickets for review and giveaway. There was no additional compensation and the opinions contained in this post are my own.

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