A unique opportunity is in town for people of all ages. The Piccolo Zoppé Circus will perform from Wednesday, Nov. 6, through Sunday, Nov. 17, in the big tents at the former football field behind the newest Creekside Gymnasium.
Tosca Zoppé is a sixth-generation circus performer whose family began the show in 1842 in Hungary. It began with a French Clown and a Hungarian equestrian ballerina. They fell in love, married, and went to Italy, where they started the Zoppe Circus. The show has continued for 182 years.
Zoppé said some of her nieces and nephews in the show are seventh and eighth generation.
Her father came to the United States in 1952 to film “The Greatest Show on Earth.” The family stayed, and her parents produced shows in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Arkansas. At one point, her father purchased a farm in Little Rock. Her mother loved the area, insisted they purchase a home, and put down roots between traveling worldwide. They still have a home base in Greenbrier.
This is the first time the Boutique Circus has performed in Harrison. “We have a new production called the Winter Circus so we could stay closer to home for the holidays and yet still entertain while not straying away too far.”
The Winter Circus production will begin entertaining in Harrison, then move to North Little Rock, Hot Springs, and conclude in Greenbrier.
Zoppé said they have performers worldwide, including Argentina, Africa, Mexico, and Italy. The performances will include acts with horses, dogs, acrobats, and aerialists. The Old World European-style circus places the guests close enough for a personal experience yet out of harm’s way.
Guests are encouraged to come early and mingle with some entertainers in the foyer tent. Hot chocolate, hot cider, popcorn, and specially selected European delights will be available for purchase and enjoyment during the show.
Zoppé said she has been very encouraged by families who loved the experience together. “It’s difficult to get teenagers off of their phones. But we've heard many good stories about this show keeping their interest the whole time. It’s difficult for families to find affordable activities, but this is a great way to engage in something together.”
To identify Tosca Zoppé during the circus, look for her standing on a beautiful horse.
Romeo is a third-generation Zoppé Circus Horse. He was born on the family’s farm in Greenbrier on July 4, 2000. Romeo has traveled far and wide performing with his first love, Fancy, a beautiful Belgian mare, his papa Jay, and his mama Tosca. Although small in stature for a draft horse, Romeo has been a dedicated Circus horse. He loves to perform, and he is ready to go when he hears his music. He and his partner Fancy have carried Jay and Tosca on their backs for their classic Pas de Deux routine for many years and also played the role of Tosca’s finish horse, where she jumps over fire as he gallops underneath. Although he is retired from bareback riding, he still makes his cameo in the show, as he would be heartbroken not to be in the spotlight.
The relationship between Tosca and Romeo is truly special. Tosca would say that her horses are the true stars of the show.
Visit Piccolozoppe.com for tickets or videos of past performances.
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