I remember receiving a flyer in primary school advertising The Boswell-Wilkie Circus. I don’t remember whether I knew what a circus was back then but I got caught up in the idea of an outing where I could watch animals do tricks and watch people fly through the air on the trapeze. That was, obviously, before I realized that animals performing tricks is unnatural and cruel and I made the choice to never go to a circus again.
A few years ago I heard about Madame Zingara’s and my sister took Anton and me there for my birthday. I remember wondering what life must be like for these performing artists. I mean, when you’re a kid, you imagine yourself running away to go and live with the circus but when you’re a grown up, it’s hard to wrap your head around what it must be like for grownups who write, “Circus Performer” on their bank application forms.
TazzDiscovers Zip Zip Circus
Zip Zap Circus school can be found next to the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town and performs every Saturday at around 3pm between April and September.
The school invites kids from all backgrounds to “Dare to Dream” and the programme teaches ethics, honesty, teamwork, discipline and self confidence.
Ticket prices vary based on which school is hosting the fundraiser but buying your ticket online through Quicket usually means you can save a few rands. Not all shows have tickets available through Quicket (not ideal) but R100 per person (kids under age 3 are free) will get you through the door.
I encourage you to make a point of going to see for yourself. Our kids couldn’t stop talking about it and trying to master a few of the tricks themselves. Even older kids will find watching regular people just like them rely on the strength of their bodies to do amazing things.
Parking is free in the CBD after 2pm over the weekend but the “Dome” is within walking distance of the MyCiti Bus Civic Center station if you would prefer to take public transport. If you want to know more about the Circus, visit the hyperlink I’ve included above or call (021) 421 8622 or email info@zip-zap.co.za
Have you visited Zip Zap Circus with your family? What did you think?
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