The Super American Circus returns to Kailua-Kona this weekend following a lengthy hiatus amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It’s a new show with a new cast,” said Super American Circus Owner Cornell “Tuffy” Nicholas. “It’ll be a modern, thrilling, fun family activity for everyone to see. This year is motorcycle theme — with a ballet and hilarious comedy throughout the show. And, we have a motorcycle going up on the high wire. It’s really a great.”
Performing motorcycle stunts during the eight shows scheduled Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Old Kona Airport Park will be Erick Dominguez, who’s been riding motorcycles since he was 11 years old, and happy to be back in the motorcycle ring.
“It was really really tough during the pandemic,” said Dominguez, who has been riding motorcycles since age 11. “All our shows got canceled for two years in a row and we weren’t able to work. So it’s perfect that things are back to normal now. We had to find other jobs. I ended up putting equipment away.”
Families attending the shows will be delighted with the pre-show and intermission activities including face painting, photo opportunities and more. Traditional treats such as snow cones, cotton candy and popcorn will be available for purchase.
Performances include: The Dominguez Stunt Team – Moto Madness (Daredevil motorcycle act in the Globe of Death, Incline Motorcycle and FMX); Rebekah Cavinder (Hair Hanging Aerialist); Ksomonavts (Acrobatic Bar, Skip Rope and Acro Wheel); Cristina Holt and Alexander Knapp (Bing Bang Boom Circus – contemporary comedic, action-based duo/jugglers) and more.
This year, ticket sales will benefit Make-A-Wish Hawaii with a portion of the ticket price going to the nonprofit that unique wishes every year and provides hope for children and teens that are critically ill.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Make-A-Wish has had to adapt in many ways. Despite the challenges, since 2020, Make-A-Wish has been able to grant 17 different wishes for children with critical illnesses on the Hawaii Island — including Alex’s wish to have a yurt and Karley’s wish to go to Disney world on her birthday, the organization said.
“We are grateful for the support of our community to help grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses,” a spokesperson said. “We couldn’t do it without our community’s support! The Super American Circus’ generous donation of $1 from each ticket sold will add up to make a big impact for our local keiki waiting for their wishes to be granted.”
Nicholas said couldn’t think of a better cause for the circus to support.
“We chose Make-A-Wish because it’s a great organization,” he said. “They’re helping critically ill kids. What fits better than the circus? It’s a perfect partnership.”
Showtimes are 5 and 8 p.m. Friday, and 1, 4 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Ticket prices start at $34 for adults and $18 for children with a family package, preferred seats and other options available.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit superamericancircus.com.
