🎪🍿 FL!P Circus Brings Family-Friendly Fun Back to Yonkers 🤡🎈
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting night out, FL!P Circus is back in Yonkers, and I can honestly say it’s worth going. I had the chance to attend the show, and from the moment I stepped inside the Big Top, I could feel the energy and excitement in the air. The setup makes it feel personal, like you’re right there on stage with the performers, which only adds to the thrill. Created by the Vazquez family, FL!P Circus is known for blending classic circus tradition with fresh, high-energy performances. This year’s show brings a whole new lineup, featuring world-class talent from around the globe!
A Show Full of Energy and Talent 🤹🎊
From acrobatics and daring stunts to comedy and impressive displays of strength and talent, the performers kept the audience engaged throughout the show. The combination of fast-paced action and well-timed humor made for an enjoyable experience that had both adults and kids reacting with excitement. This year’s show includes an incredible mix of talent, from the gravity-defying “rolla bolla” skills of Ringmaster Jan Vazquez and his sister Carolina Vazquez to the electrifying contortion of the West African Bone Breakers. The Bravuuri Troupe from Finland brought high-energy stunts, while Duo Fossett from Hungary blended acrobatics and aerial artistry. Strength and precision were on full display with Guinea’s Duo Marrufo’s hand-balancing routine, and the Bingo Troupe from Ukraine filled the tent with dynamic dance and aerial feats. Throughout it all, Spain’s Johnny Rico kept the crowd entertained with his energetic comedic style by interacting with the audience on and off stage. All in combination with the live FL!P circus band providing the perfect soundtrack to the performances, everything flowed seamlessly, keeping the energy high and the audience immersed in the action.
Behind the Scenes with Jan Vazquez 🎬🎥
I had the privilege to speak with Ringmaster Jan Vazquez to get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring FL!P Circus to life each night. As a fourth-generation circus performer, he shared what it’s like to live and breathe the circus life—from the hard work that goes into putting on a world-class show to the fun and challenges of life on the road.
Q: As a fourth-generation circus performer, how has your family’s history influenced your approach to leading the show?
A: Vazquez’s family has held various roles in circus administration and leadership. He carries high expectations for himself and works hard to maintain the circus as a professional experience. Keeping it fun, alive, and well-cared-for is his main goal.
Q: You and your sister perform the “rolla bolla act”—what inspired you to take on such a daring skill?
A: It was actually their father’s idea. Initially, he suggested starting with a unicycle and juggling, and then incorporating his sister into the act by balancing her on his shoulders. Though they started separately, their father’s recommendation brought them together as a team.
Q: FL!P Circus has a unique and intimate feel compared to larger-scale productions. What makes this show stand out from other circuses?
A: Jan Vazquez explained that while he is not the director, his role is to ensure the show runs smoothly as the ringmaster. What sets FL!P Circus apart is its strong sense of family—many of the artists come from different countries and find comfort in the welcoming environment.
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges in living in a traveling circus?
A: Living in RVs while on tour essentially means creating a small city on the move, complete with generators and water systems. Vazquez shared that freezing temperatures could make things tricky, such as hoses freezing in cold weather. However, despite these challenges, he loves the lifestyle, describing it as an exciting experience that pays off with two hours of celebration in the form of shows every night.
Q: What’s a typical day like for you and the cast while on tour?
A: Mornings start with work at 9 AM, focusing on lights, sound, stage setup, and overall improvements. Maintenance checks, painting when needed, and cleaning take place throughout the day, with a break before showtime. Two hours before the performance, final preparations begin, including warm-ups.
Q: What city or stop on the tour are you most looking forward to this year?
A: “Yonkers, of course!” Vazquez laughed. But he also acknowledged that everywhere they travel has something beautiful to offer.
Q: How do you and the performers stay physically and mentally prepared for such demanding performances?
A: Vazquez recently took up rock climbing as a hobby, finding it both mentally and physically challenging. Some artists prefer to rest all day, while others stay active in different ways. He personally doesn’t follow a strict diet but avoids overindulgence. Mentally, nothing can truly prepare someone for performing, but once on stage, it all becomes second nature.
Q: What do you hope audiences take away from their experience under the Big Top?
A: Vazquez hopes audiences leave with a sense of awe and childlike wonder while forgetting their problems and enjoying time with loved ones. The ultimate goal is to provide a feel-good atmosphere that stays with them long after the show ends.
Q: For anyone considering seeing the show, what would you say to convince them?
A: He described FL!P Circus as something truly unique. Every circus is different, but FL!P stands out due to its attention to detail, international cast of professional performers, and the sheer effort that goes into every show. He added, “Plus, the food is great, too!”
Overall, FL!P Circus is a one-of-a-kind experience that blends incredible talent, energy, and excitement. Whether you’re a longtime circus fan or seeing it for the first time, it’s a night of entertainment you won’t forget!
Show Information & Tickets 📝🎟️
FL!P Circus is performing at the Cross County Center in Yonkers, NY from February 21 through March 18. Showtimes are at 7:00 PM on weekdays and 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 7:00 PM on weekends. Tickets start at $15 for children and $50 for adults, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, handicap, and family pack discounts available. Tickets can be purchased online at www.FlipCircus.com or at the box office.
