Life is a circus right now for us all, but the actual circus is coming to Tempe – drive-in style.
This year the Zoppé Family Circus, which has been traveling to Arizona for 13 years, is coming to Tempe as a drive-in show for the COVID-19 era.
During the “live, multimedia drive-in show,” a big top will be suspended in mid-air with a large LED screen showing the action on stage. Performances will include a human cannonball, Tulga the strong man, the Wheel of Death, equestrian vaulting and swinging trapeze.
Guests can watch from their cars and listen to the show through an FM radio station. There will be matinee and evening performances daily from Dec. 26 through Jan. 10 outside Big Surf AZ in Tempe.
This isn’t the first pandemic the Zoppé family has weathered.
“For 178 years and seven generations, the Zoppé family has upheld the love and fun of their uniquely intimate Italian circus and has fought to preserve their creation through countless trials, including wars, political upheavals and even the 1918 pandemic,” a press release reads.
Parking spots are on a first-come basis for whichever row you have purchased. RVs, buses and limousines are not allowed, and there should not be more people than seatbelts in the vehicle.
Gates open an hour before the show and close 15 minutes after showtime. Before each performance, the circus family will travel around to greet guests and put on an old-fashioned circus parade.
According to the event description, staff will wear personal protective equipment and follow guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the state of Arizona. Guests should wear masks and observe social distancing.
Portable restrooms will be available.
When: Various times, Dec. 26-Jan. 10, 2021.
Where: Big Surf AZ, 1500 N. McClintock Dr., Tempe.
Admission: $49-$199 per car.
Details: 802-442-9005, zoppe.net.