Florida State University’s Flying High Circus announced on March 10 that it will debut a new Spring Performance Series, titled “Tall Tales,” in April. The production will be the first to take place under FSU’s newly installed big top tent, which was completed in 2025.
The unveiling of the new tent and show marks a significant milestone for the circus, which has been preparing for two years. Chad Mathews, director of the FSU Flying High Circus, said, “After two years of preparation, we will unveil our fully completed circus tent and venue, as well as a brand-new show full of new vibrant costumes and music. We are very excited to finally showcase the full cast in our new circus tent and cannot wait to share it with everyone.”
Founded in 1947 as an extracurricular activity under the Division of Student Affairs, the FSU Flying High Circus is run by student performers who handle all aspects of production. Students rig their own equipment, sew costumes, manage lights and sound for performances, and set up the tent on campus.
“Tall Tales” features a blend of fact and fiction woven into a high-flying circus story designed to entertain audiences of all ages. The show’s costumes combine classic circus glamour with elements inspired by Florida’s flora and fauna. Hayden Bevis, a second-year nursing major performing swinging trapeze, flying trapeze, and Lyra acts this year, said: “I have been working on some of my acts for two years now, and I’m really excited to perform in home shows and show them off. I am also looking forward to performing with all my friends because we have worked so hard. The circus is an organization that I hold close to my heart, and I love performing because we get to show everyone what we’ve been working on.”
Carina Novarro, a sophomore chemistry major who will perform routines on triple trapeze, low casting and Lyra added: “I am so excited to see our hard work come to life under the big top and to perform for the FSU community.”
Tickets are limited for all shows. Admission is free for students with an FSU ID while faculty and staff receive an employee discount. Gates open one hour before each performance. More information about tickets can be found at circus.fsu.edu.
