Circus 1903 brings the golden age of circus to Coca-Cola Arena for the first time
The circus is coming to town – and not just any circus. The internationally acclaimed Circus 1903 is making its Dubai debut at Coca-Cola Arena from 20–22 June 2025, promising an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
Brought to life by the producers of the world's biggest-selling magic show, The Illusionists, in collaboration with the award-winning puppeteers of War Horse, Circus 1903 delivers a thrilling turn-of-the-century spectacular.
Circus 1903 will transport audiences to the mesmerising golden age of circus with a dazzling lineup of jaw-dropping acts, from strongmen and skaters to acrobats and aerialists! The production blends vintage Americana flair with edge-of-your-seat entertainment. While the acts contain all the thrills and daredevil entertainment one would expect from a circus, Circus 1903 offers an exciting new twist.
The show will bring African elephants back into the ring through sensational puppetry. Queenie and Peanut, a mother and baby duo, are brought to life by a team of puppeteers, captivating audiences with their lifelike movements as the mother teaches her baby to perform in the circus. Featuring groundbreaking advances in design and expression, these puppets are true feats of theatrical artistry.
At the heart of the action is the ringmaster whose charisma, humour and audience interaction promise to make each performance unique and interactive with magical routines and gut-busting jokes. Originally produced by Simon Painter and Tim Lawson, the creators of Le Grand Cirque, Le Noir, Cirque Adrenaline and The Illusionists, which has broken box office records across the globe from Broadway to London's West End, this show guarantees an extraordinary theatrical experience.
To recreate the grand days of the circus, scenic artist Todd Ivins designed an extraordinary circus set, that will keep the audience on the edge of their seats. This production features high-energy feats like the teeterboard, daring Icarian games, a thrilling acrobatic bike, mind-bending contortion and the gravity-defying duo trapeze. It will also take audiences to new heights with a heart-stopping hair hang act, powerhouse strongmen, stunning juggling and skaters, and wild bungee acts.
Further adding to the 1900's period feel are recreations of original turn-of-the-century circus costumes designed by Angela Aaron. These were inspired by authentic photographic collections, the study of historical museum pieces, and discussions with experts and historians.
After captivating audiences worldwide, Circus 1903 will take center stage at Coca-Cola Arena for a limited five-show run, in association with PME Entertainment. With world-class performers and a carefully crafted 90-minute show, it's more than just a night out – it's a time-traveling theatrical escape for the whole family. From reliving childhood memories to creating brand-new ones, Circus 1903 promises to leave audiences wide-eyed and completely enchanted. Every act is a heartfelt tribute to the art of spectacle, bringing nostalgia to life for today's audiences.
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