Seven Days: Vermont's Independent Voice

Funny Schmunny

The 11- to 18-year-olds pulling off breathtaking tumbling, juggling and aerial feats around the state this week didn’t just run away to join the circus ... they are the circus. Circus Smirkus’ annual Big Top Tour stars talented youngsters hailing from as far as California and the United Kingdom, and as close as the Green Mountains. Gleaned through auditions beginning last fall, they will tote this year’s two-hour show — and a gargantuan, European-style tent — all over New England this summer. Apropos to the “Wilderness Wonders: Outdoor Adventures Under the Big Top” theme, wire walkers, contortionists, acrobats and other performers celebrate Mother Nature while simultaneously clowning around.