After a year-long break caused by tornado damage, the Florida State University (FSU) Flying High Circus will return this October for its 15th annual Halloween Show Series. The event marks the first full performance in a new tent, replacing the previous one that was destroyed.
The family-friendly shows are scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 17; Saturday, Oct. 18; Friday, Oct. 24; and Saturday, Oct. 25. Doors will open one hour before each show.
The performances will include flying skeletons and dancing zombies as part of a thriller-style production.
Jake Radtke, a senior double-majoring in psychology and criminology and a fourth-year cast member, commented on the upcoming event: “This year’s Halloween show series is so exciting because not only is it our first show series back under the big top, but I know that a lot of people, including myself, are looking forward to showing everything we’ve been working on for the past year.”
Chad Mathews, director of the FSU Flying High Circus, said: “With all we have gone through over the past year and a half, it’s a relief to be able to function like normal. Our Halloween show presents so much differently than our other traditional shows. Once in their makeup and costumes, our performers really have fun and get into character. That, along with the music, lighting and effects we employ, really make for an enjoyable experience.”
The circus previously held three sold-out sessions during Family Weekend in September that included tent tours and juggling demonstrations. The Halloween Show Series will be its first full production since April 2024.
Iris Dahlborg, a junior majoring in civil and environmental engineering and third-year performer said: “It’s so exciting to see all of our hard work from the past year pay off, both in terms of physical labor put into rebuilding the tent and getting to showcase some of the work from the past year. A huge aspect of clowning is breaking the fourth wall, so I’m especially looking forward to interacting with a live audience again.”
Tickets are limited for all performances. Students with an FSU ID can attend for free while faculty and staff receive discounted admission. Only clear bags are permitted inside the tent.
Additional information about tickets and details on supporting the circus program can be found at circus.fsu.edu.
