BWW Reviews: Grand Fun at Circus Flora with ONE SUMMER ON SECOND STREET

There's just something about a circus that brings out the kid in all of us, and when you take along a youngster to enjoy the show, the sense of wonder and excitement that they radiate is simply contagious. That's why I've always loved this time of year, when our town's own Circus Flora erects the big top behind Powell Symphony Hall and, for 29 seasons, has presented us with feats of daring-do and humorous antics that have consistently left audiences smiling and satisfied. This year is no exception. Take your family and go immediately!

With their current production, One Summer on Second Street, we are again treated to a wide variety of acts that showcase the athleticism, strength, skill, and above all trust, of the performers and animals that comprise the cast of characters who are a part of the storyline. That's what makes their productions so uniquely theatrical; there's always a narrative thread involved. And, that's a really good thing to consider when you're taking your children to see Circus Flora; they're actually following a story while they take in the action.

Led by Yo-Yo, our narrator (the always mesmerizing Cecil Mackinnon, who also directs), we're privy to the antics of the residents of second street, who are already at odds with one another when they suddenly have to deal with a landlord who forbids them from having any animals on the premises. Of course, our resident comedic presence, Adam Kuchler, who plays the happy handyman with infectious glee, hatches a plan that will bring the inhabitants of second street together again. Needless to say, it provides for an upbeat conclusion that's timed perfectly with the presentations of the various performers.

From the opening gymnastic wonders of The St. Louis Arches to the amazing stunts pulled by Mayya Panfilova's Housecats, as well as the stunning trapeze work of The Daring Jones Duo (David Jones and Blaze Birge), the acts come fast and furious. By the time you've watched Sidney "Iking" Bateman and Melvin Diggs jump through hoops you wouldn't think anyone could fit through, you're startled by the aerial bravery of The Flying Wallendas, pulling off death-defying marvels as they walk or bicycle across a tightrope suspended high above the crowd.

But, there's more to come, with the Alanian Riders (Cecile B. Borrey, Lev Gigolaev, Veronica Painter, and Alina Stasick) circling the ring at frightening speed on horseback, positioning themselves in ways that astound. Then there's Helen Valla guiding pigeons as they gracefully glide through the air. Before you know it, Quator Bounce is plunging from the rooftop of the buildings on second street onto a trampoline that allows them to soar back up to the top, or climb up the walls, or even step into a window.

All the while you're gazing at this, you're also listening to the artistry of the Circus Flora Band (compositions by Miriam Cutler and Janine Del'Arte), you're seeing the action spot on due to Jesse Alford's lighting design, you're appreciating the colorful costuming of Nina Reed, and the wonderful set designed by Sarah Pearline. And, what other artistic director. other than Jack Marsh can do a backflip? So, get out and see Circus Flora's current production of One Summer on Second Street, playing through June 28, 2015! Everyone needs a grin on their face now and then, and I can't think of any better place to get one.

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