By JEANNIE RITCHIE

The Mysterious Circus rolled into Alexandria this week with its first show under the big top last night.

 

Excitement was in the air as anticipated mounted. They warmed us up with my favorite indoor recess activity: the Cha Cha Slide. No one seemed sure if it was okay to stand up in the stadium seating until they saw me in the aisle; one absolutely cannot do the Cha Cha Slide seated! We all left stomped and Charlie Brown’d our way to a fever pitch.

 

Including Brody Myers, 12, who’d come to do something fun with his family.

 

I asked Jessie Shirley, 11, what he was looking forward to the most. “The dirt bikes in the cage and the bicycle on the high wire.”

 

I looked to the top of the tent. I was pretty sure I’d be holding my breath when we reached that point. I was right; my maternal nature even applies to circus performers!

 

Nevaeh Lofton, 13, was excited for the opportunity to spend time with loved ones. “I just wanted to catch the show and spend time with family and friends.”

 

Families all under the big top echoed the sentiment as laughter reigned supreme through daredevil acts, humorous clowns, aerial acrobatics, juggling, and that nail-biting high wire act.

 

Connor Herron, 7, was brought on stage to be a part of the show. Performing with our favorite clown, he was a true showman.

 

Asked afterward about his favorite part of performing under the big top, Connor answered laughing. “It was so funny when the clown kept trying to distract me!”

 

The show continues through April 14 with Monday-Friday shows at 7:30 PM. Saturday shows are at 2 PM, 5 PM, and 7:45 PM. Sunday shows are at 2 PM and 4:30 PM.

 

Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at https://tickets.themysteriouscircus.com or onsite.

 

The Alexandria Mall is located at 3437 Masonic Drive.

 

Turn off the screens, bring your family, and make some memories to last a lifetime.