If you’ve got a pint-sized Recess Monkey fan, step right up for this all-new, out of this world show. Big Top Rock: Curious Circus combines the rocktastic music of Recess Monkey’s latest album WIRED with performances from Teatro ZinZanni’s renowned dinner show and acts from Seattle’s circus stars of tomorrow. Throw in some silly inventions, a bit of magic and a flying machine and you’ve got an unforgettable hour of family entertainment. Let the show begin!
Photo: Bob Suh
Step Right Up
As soon as you enter the circus tent, you’ll behold an exciting stage complete with lights and a disco ball. Little fans can grab a front row seat in the kiddie mosh pit (don’t worry, you won’t find any pushing or crowd surfing here, just the best seats in the house). To kill time before the show, begin practicing your dance moves or have your little spectators see if they can spot Waldo.
Photo: Bob Suh
Now For The Main Attraction
Come one, come all and join the Mother of Invention as she invites you to her Exhibition of Ideas and Inventions. You will see magic tricks by Alexander the Great, trapeze arts, inventions of Professor Loco, and Dr. Aeroflot’s flying machine all while listening to Recess Monkey play songs from their newest album, WIRED. We won’t give away the ending, but be sure to watch what happens when a giant cake is wheeled out. We couldn’t think of a better way to end an awe-inspiring show. Psst… Be sure to sneak a few glances at your little showgoers. We guarantee their eyes will be plastered to the stage, mouth open in wonder as they take everything in, making you feel like the coolest parent in town.
photo: Bob Suh
The Incredible Cast
There are some amazing people who make this show possible and they deserve a shout-out. The always-popular trio, Drew, Jack and Korum who make up Recess Monkey, will have your kiddos dancing and singing from the moment the show starts. Other performers include Charly Castors, Terry Crane, Ian Green, Jude Sack, and Téa Kazitova, Cara Hunter, and Alana Richardson from the Scoil Rince Slieveloughane School. Don’t even get us started on all the work and planning that goes on behind the scenes!
photo: Bob Suh
Snacks and a Show
If your crew needs a mid-morning pick-me-up, you’ll be glad to know you can order snacks such as popcorn, Top Pot Donuts, Trophy Cupcakes, fruit cups, cookies, water, and sodas when you arrive. The menu even includes adult beverages… Mimosas anyone? Best part? You can take everything inside the tent and nosh while you watch.
photo: Bob Suh
Browse the Boutique
Be sure to take some time to browse the boutique located inside the front doors. This is where you’ll find glitzy masks complete with feathers and jewels, colorful hats, jewelry, pins, boas, beads, bangles, and more. All items are one-of-a-kind pieces only available at Teatro ZinZanni. Psst… Be sure to shop quickly, the boutique is only open for a brief time before and after the show.
Zinzanni Institute for Circus Arts
If your little one can’t stop talking about the show long after it has ended, it might be time to think about enrolling him or her in Camp Zinzanni. During camp, little circus buffs (ages 5-17) will be taught the basics of circus arts by some of the world’s greatest circus artists. Hint: This is an awesome way to get your kids away from the TV and to work out their bodies and minds. Check the website for all the details and upcoming camp dates.
photo: Bob Suh
Good to Know
While it’s okay to take pictures before and after the show, it’s a no-go during the main event, a fact they will kindly remind you of before things get rolling. If you are attending with a group of eight or more, be sure to contact the box office for discounted rates. Also, most importantly, don’t forget to don your feather boas, masks, and hats. All things silly are welcome and encouraged.
photo: Bob Suh
Teatro ZinZanni
222 Mercer St.
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-802-0015
Online: zinzanni.com/seattle/shows/family
Tickets: tzseattle-tickets.zinzanni.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=39
Dates: Now through Dec. 28, 2014
Hours: Doors open at 10 a.m.; show runs from 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Cost: $19/person for booth seating; $22/person for chair seating; babes under 1 are free
Will you be attending Big Top Rock: Curious Circus? Let us know about your experience in a comment below.
—Allison Rasmussen
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