Family fun as Jay Miller's Circus comes to town

The popular attraction — like many in the entertainments sector, hit hard by Covid restrictions last summer — is back on the Isle of Wight at last, with its first shows held at their tradition Whippingham venue yesterday (Friday).  

Jay Miller's Circus will be running there until Tuesday, August 31, with performances at 3pm and 7pm on weekdays, 7pm on Saturdays and at 2pm and 5pm on Sundays.

The circus, which first came to the Isle of Wight in 1989, has only missed one summer visit — last year. 

Under the Big Top, you could be excused for forgetting to eat your candy floss and popcorn as you marvel at a talented cast of 30, with acts that include the cheeky, loveable clown, Peppi, together with bicycle duo Macaggi, from Spain, and Matyi, from Hungary, doing the dangerous aerial sky walk.

Hold your breath as Talia Claire powers across the arena on the high trapeze, as well as superb juggling from the show's youngest performer, JJ, and incredible dancing skills from Miss Jodi on the silver thread.

There will also be crossbow legends the Miller Duo, defying death with every shot, while Miss Paige performs above the ring in the complex Cube.

A young reveller getting her face painted at the circus.

The bill, hosted by popular ringmaster Laszlo Schlingloff, will also feature an array of magic and illusion, plus an eye-popping laser show.

"Our evening show last night was brilliant. The audience was very responsive. We've had so much positive feedback from people across the Island, saying they're glad we're back," said the circus's owner, John Miller.

"We specialise in providing amazing live family entertainment at its very best. We are a family business aimed at the family market.

"We have become very much part of the Isle of Wight culture." 

Peppi the clown observing Covid rules.

Although Jay Miller's Circus will be relaxing some of its Covid restrictions under the Big Top, under government guidance, they will be respecting the health of circus goers by retaining a reduced capacity, of around 550, to ensure they still feel safe and comfortable.

Organisers say they prefer masks to be worn in the tent to keep their audience, artistes and company safe.

"Your cooperation with this will be greatly appreciated," John added.

"All the cast and staff are in a bubble, so it is not affecting the acts we do, but we have decided to not have any close interaction with the audience, just to ensure people's safety.

"For the audience's safety, please note, our staff will retain masks and visors. We will continue with additional ventilation measures and regular cleaning, as well as providing multiple hand sanitising points.

"We will also still be asking to take temperatures before entering the Big Top.

"Our main priority is always be to keep the public and our team as safe as possible, while ensuring everyone has a great time."

For ticket information, visit https://www.jaymillerscircus.co.uk/tickets/