Review: Circus Flora's PASTIME is a Real HIT!

It's that time of year again! Yes, right before it's officially Summer, our own town's one-ring circus pops up the big top behind Powell Symphony Hall. Circus Flora is a local tradition, and this years' presentation, PASTIME, also touches on another St. Louis tradition; baseball. It's a delightful mix of humor and athleticism that presents us with a slate full of premium acts, all in an intimate environment, and freed from all the "scary clown" nonsense you've seen in movies any number of times. No, Circus Flora is guaranteed fun for everyone!

The plotline that runs through the lineup of acts concerns the woeful Mound City Zephyrs. They're doing poorly due to the "yips" their infielder has been having. It seems his throws to first base have been sailing into the stands on a routine basis, causing the team to lose close games. But, never fear, there's Crockett to the rescue, as the amusing juggler/acrobat helps the club rights its course and become winners.

As always, Cecil Mackinnon guides us through the action as Yo-Yo, dressed resplendently in a silvery uniform like costume to match the theme of the show. In between expositions, there are a bevy of amazing acts to behold. Leading off were The Flying Wallendas, whose high wire capers are a part of circus history. They fill the Matt Carpenter role by starting the game, I mean show, with a bang. They're followed by Johnny Peer's absolutely lovable Muttville Comix, who are completely at ease in their hilarious hi-jinks. Bateman and Diggs provide an example of acrobatic wizardry as they leap and glide through a series of hoops. La Tarumba also does a bit of leaping and gliding, but from the back of a moving horse, and through an actual burning ring of fire. The Cuban Connection do two unique presentations, one of which features a suspended rope, and another that utilizes a plank that's placed on the shoulders of two performers, while a third is astride it, flipping in the air with abandon. Amanda Crockett provides plenty of laughs juggling hats, and doing a little trapeze work as well. The St. Louis Arches, an always changing group of youngsters, do some marvelous acrobatic stunts, and the Flying Cortes bring home a winner with a walkoff homerun that features some spectacular trapeze artistry.

Artistic director Jack Marsh and Executive Director Larry Mabrey, along with Cecil Mackinnon, have crafted a genuinely good time that's full of thrills and excitement. Sarah Pearline's scenic design follows the baseball theme, with the band, under the direction of arranger and composer Janine Del' Arte, performing in a bleacher-like setting. Nina Reed's costumes keep the theme going, and manages to carry the baseball look without hindering the performers in the least, and Jesse Alford's lighting keeps all the action In Focus.

PASTIME is a real treat, and Circus Flora fans will certainly be delighted. And, if you've never been to the circus, or were frightened by clowns as a child, have no fear, there's only a great deal of enjoyment to be had here through July 3, 2016.

Photo credit: Steve Truesdell