By Dorothy J. Gentry
Contributing Writer
Photos/Video : Dorothy J. Gentry
The Universoul Circus’ Family Reunion Tour – celebrating 30 years – has made its annual stop in Dallas at Red Bird Mall for a two-week run.
Driving down Highway 67, you can’t miss the large purple and gold performance tent for the Universoul Circus – situated strategically in the center of the parking lot of what is still affectionately called Red Bird Mall.
“There is the brand-new tent that Dallas has never seen; they will feel new energy walking in and definitely see some new acts and new ways to get the audience involved,” said Donald “N.O.” Long, who has served as Ringmaster for 12 years.
“We are also themed around Family Reunion so everyone you see at the circus is considered your cousins from around the world.”
Long spoke on the special connection between the circus and the Red Bird area of Dallas.
“We want to highlight all the areas of Dallas, but this area is a staple that we come to every chance we get and the people of this community are excited,” he said. “They know when we come around, the traffic to the gas stations, restaurants, etc. everything lifts when the circus comes to town.
“Especially this community which we are very familiar with. And even me, I can’t wait to get to some of the places around here that I eat at. So yeah, this is home for us.”
The critically acclaimed circus, described as “hip hop under the Big Top,” was founded 30 years ago in Atlanta in 1994 by concert and theater promoter, Cedric Walker. It’s high energy and full of jaw-dropping stunts and acrobats, aerodynamic aerialists, fire breathers, stilt dancers, music, dance, laughter and more.
This year it is also bringing together big names from five continents, bilingual performers from other countries including China and a dozen culturally diverse performances under the sparkling new big top.
“Because our show is so intimate, it’s a big stage but it’s an intimate feeling that we provide, our fans feel a part of it,” Long said about the fact that the circus continues to roll on after 30 years.
“They feel responsible, so they come with expectations. Every year when we build out the show, we have to future out how do we keep some classics but also integrate the new things to stay ahead of the curb.”
Universoul Circus will run through Aug. 11 at Red Bird Mall, 3662 Camp Wisdom Road. For tickets and more information, visit universoulcircus.com.
Dorothy Gentry is an award-winning journalist, PR pro and educator. A University of North Texas alum, she is the Sports Editor for Texas Metro News, Garland Journal and I Messenger.
