Tag Archives: shrine circus

Through the Eyes of a Child

Large, majestic animals towering up high. The sweet buttery smell of popcorn and cheese nachos fills my nostrils. Oh, and something else…animals? We walk up to a ginormous red and yellow tent and nice men in red hats greet us.

“Hold on honey, there are a lot of people here.” Mommy is talking to me and holding tight to my hand but there’s so much around me I want to see. Bright lights, clowns, and animals. Oh, I cannot wait to see the animals!

The show is about to start. The lights dim and then a loud, deep voice echoes through the tent. A tall man in a suit starts speaking into the microphone. He sounds just like I always imagined he would.

A short while later, the tigers enter the ring, I cannot believe I’m so close! I can see their muscles flex as they move. I can see their teeth and hear their breathing. This is one of the coolest moments of my life and I can hardly believe I’m here! I look up at my mommy and she’s smiling. I squeeze her arm. My daddy is leaned forward in his seat, his chin resting on this hands. He looks at me, smiles then rubs my hair and tells me to keep watching so I don’t miss anything.

shrine circus, circus, entertainment, concessions, elephants, lions, tigersOoh, I chomp on the popcorn and sip my slushie while the music blares around me. I cannot believe how cool this is. This is the perfect moment. I never want to forget how amazing this is.

The clown comes out next. A real, actual, clown with orange hair and a red nose! Just like I always saw in books and movies. He has a whistle and is really silly. Everyone around me is laughing.

Next there are so many horses. They’re really pretty. A lady is talking to them and it seems like they’re listening to her. They are dancing around in the ring. Wow, I love horses!

The combination of this popcorn, slushie and animals is so amazing. I never want this night to end.

Next up the elephants come out. The actual, real, huge, elephants! I have waited my entire life for this moment. Mommy squeezes my hand with excitement, she must have known! I watch and watch as so many of my dreams come true before my eyes. I get to see elephants, tigers, horses and jugglers. Wow.

Erika Zerbini, Zerbini, Tarzan Zerbini, horse whisperer, circus, entertainment, elephants, horsesIt’s break-time. I look at my mommy and it’s as though she can read my mind. She grabs my hand and races me over to the elephant ride. I look at her and it’s like she already knows the answer “Yes honey, you can ride the elephant.” I cannot believe how cool my mommy is. I climb onto a ginormous elephant and feel it sway as it walks around the ring. I’m so high up, even my daddy looks small. I hold on tight and enjoy every second.

When it’s time to get down, I cannot stop smiling, my cheeks hurt.

I don’t want this show to end. I’m reminding myself of every detail so I can keep watching in my head. My hands and face are sticky with cotton candy but my heart is so happy! I have the coolest parents ever!

_______

The Shrine Circus is wonderful for children of all ages, however, the impact on a little child is nothing short of magical. Do yourself, your friends and your children a favour. Get a ticket, and take your family to the Shrine Circus. These memories will last a lifetime. Use promo code FUN to take advantage of our 2 for 1 promo. See you under the Big Top!

The Age Old Craft of Live Entertainment

Lions, and tigers and horses, oh my! There is a buzz building around us. Kids of all ages are getting giddily excited and counting down the days until the Shrine Circus comes to a city near them!

Our tour has been a fantastic success with many of our shows sold out. There is an excellent reason why! Visit our Facebook page and Twitter account to read what many of our attendees had to say about our performance!

We live in a gizmo/gadget/smart device kind of world. One in which kids often play with devices or stare at screens. When entertainment is as easy to find as switching on a device, it can be easy to lose sight of the value in the age old craft of live entertainment. This is why we’re here to celebrate our 250th year of performing, entertaining families and making memories with you…our fans!

We can’t wait for you to join our family as we flip high into the sky, as we mesmerize and entertain you with the fruits of our labour and our beloved friends the elephants, tigers and horses of the Shrine Circus.

Bring your children, your neighbours and your families to sit back and be transported by entertainment that has been perfected with time, hard work and skill. Grab some popcorn and allow us to treat your family to a wonderful evening you will not forget any time soon. Every child deserves to visit the circus even once; after all, it’s what memories are made of!

Why not take advantage of our fantastic deal to get 2 tickets for the price of 1. Be sure to use promo code “FUN”! It’s the perfect time to enjoy a fantastic show surrounded by the people you love watching performers showcase their talents and passion. We look forward to seeing you under the Big Top!

For the Love of Animals

There are many circuses out there, some that share our name, but few if any that share our values and commitment to professionalism and excellence when it comes to the well being of our animals. Our family has devoted 250 years to working with and training animals. We are proud of our circus families and the extraordinary care and attention our animals receive.

Our travel schedule is centered around our animals’ needs. We are proud to say that our show tour has far less travel than most other productions.

For the few trips during our season which are multi-day trips, we have a network of locations where we can safely and comfortably house both our domestic and exotic animals. These locations generally include fairgrounds, species appropriate boarding facilities and private properties.

Not only do we monitor the status of our animals during the trip, we never travel more than two hours without stopping for water, food and relaxation. This is only one of the many ways we exemplify our love and care for our animals, as well as how we differentiate ourselves from other circuses.

Studies have shown that elephants live longer traveling in circuses than they do in zoos or in the wild as they have a constant change of scenery which helps stimulate these highly intelligent creatures. Performing provides our animals with exercise and giving elephant rides keeps them physically healthy which in turn, increases their expected life span.

shrine circus, elephants, cleaning animals, shrine loves animals, animal care, happy elephants

Our animals are fed daily and watered at least five times a day. Their diet consists of grain, hay (which they have access to around the clock) fresh fruits and vegetables. They are bathed daily and their toenails are trimmed once a month.

At home, our elephants have ten acres and a pond to play in when the weather permits. In bad weather they have a large indoor exercise area.

Our circus’ animal care standards exceed governmental regulation. Our training methods are based on positive reinforcement, such as food rewards and words of praise. The relationship between animals and humans is built on mutual respect, trust and affection.

We are visited regularly by the United States Department of Agriculture, which carefully reviews our housing, feeding, housekeeping and ventilation practices.

So when you come out to visit us and take in one of our shows, rest assured the talent and professionalism you see on stage is mirrored by special care and attention to our animals behind the scenes. We look forward to seeing you soon.

shrine circus, horses, erika zerbini, horse trainer, talent, shrine loves animals

The Shrine Circus Family

The Shrine circus has been making its rounds and the feedback has been fantastic! It is obvious to attendees that the animals are jovial, well cared for and loved, but do you know what happens behind the scenes?

While the Shrine circus is synonymous with exquisite entertainment, sheer talent and thrills that will leave you clinging to the edge of your seat, there are also wonderful stories about the people behind the performance. After all, 250 years of entertaining children of all ages brings with it a story or two.

For those who have had the pleasure to experience the Shrine circus, it is apparent that there is a rich history, professionalism and love of animals behind each and every act.

horses, shrine circus, amazing activities for the whole family, what to do this summer

Erika Zerbini, (Mixed Horses and Elephants) is a ninth generation circus artist and animal trainer. At the age of 25, she is not only one of the youngest exotic animal trainers in North America; she is also one of the few female elephant trainers in the world! Following in the footsteps of her parents (Tarzan Zerbini and Lisi Bauer), Erika along with her three sisters Patricia, Sylvia and Christine have all made names for themselves as aerialists, thrill artists, and exotic and domestic animal trainers.

Gabriela Zerbini, presents two classic beautiful acts in this year’s circus, single trapeze and juggling. Gabriela has been performing in the ring for 20 years! Her world-class skill and artistic interpretation make her a favorite with all ages. Her husband is also on the road with her as stage manager.

Richard Curtis, shrine circus, what do to this summer, Shriner's

Did you know that Richard Curtis is a decorated veteran of the United States Marines having served in the Persian Gulf War? As a natural born leader, Mr Curtis has developed into one of the most sought after Ringmasters in North America.

It’s the special care and attention to the animals along with rich family history that make the Shrine circus an incredible show you will not want to miss! Now that you know a little bit about the people behind the performance, we hope you will come visit, have some popcorn and enjoy the show. Stay tuned as we continue to share more amazing facts and fascinating details about the Shrine Circus family.

Shrine circus, performers, acrobats, tigers, elephants, family entertainment

The #ShrineCircus is coming to a city near you!

The circus is coming! The circus is coming! School’s out for the summer and the kids just wanna have fun.

shrine circus, big top

There’s something magical about seeing tigers, elephants, clowns and acrobats perform while sitting under a large white tent; the smell of buttery popcorn wafting through the air. It’s the stuff childhood memories are made of and it’s coming to a city near you. Many of us have fond memories of visiting the circus when we were children, it’s time to share those same beautiful memories with our own families.

Did you know that the Zerbini Family Circus began in Paris, France in 1763? Since then, ten generations of Zerbinis have traveled the world sharing their talents with circus audiences on three continents. This year marks the Zerbini Family Circus’ 250th Anniversary Celebration at the Shrine Circus

Toronto Shrine Circus

The Circus Is Coming!

After enormous success in Calgary and Toronto, the Shrine’s circus will be making its way to Quebec August 15th-September 22nd.

Be sure to take your friends, families and neighbours to see the elephants, tigers and horses perform.

Check out the following dates, mark you calendars and tell your friends. The circus is coming to town and you do NOT want to miss it!.

 

IN ONTARIO

Rexdale (Jun 21-Jul 1),

Brampton (Jul 5-14),

Vaughan (Jul 18-21),

Oakville (Jul 25-28),

Markham (Aug 2-5) &

Ottawa (Aug 9-11)

 

IN QUEBEC:

Pincourt (Aug 15-18),

Lachute (Aug 22-25), &

Laval (Sept 12-22)

Win a Trip for 4 to Two Tails Ranch in Florida

Win a Trip for 4 to Two Tails Ranch in Florida

Stay up to date with exciting updates, special prizes and giveaways and cool news on the Shrine Circus by following us on Twitter and Faceboook.

Make sure to buy your tickets today. General Admission tickets cost $30 and VIP Ringside Seating tickets are $40.

To make this event even more affordable for families, use the coupon code FUN to get 2 tickets for the price of one! Please note that the coupon code can only be used on General Admission not VIP seating tickets.

Make sure that you don’t miss any of the fun with the Shrine Circus as it tours through Canada by Liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter and Instagram.

Win a Trip for 4 to Vacation with the Elephants in Florida!

Have you ever seen an elephant up close and personal? If not, here’s your chance to win a family trip for four to vacation with the elephants in Florida!

Win a Trip for 4 to Two Tails Ranch in Florida

Win a Trip for 4 to Two Tails Ranch in Florida

Two Tails Ranch was founded in 1984 by Theodore H. Svertesky (1954-1994) and Patricia L. Zerbini, a ninth generation Zerbini Family Circus member. Here’s what she has to say about her sanctuary…

The natural coast of Florida is a prime location for elephants. The climate is almost identical to their native countries. The location of our ranch is surrounded by green grass, live oaks and natural wildlife. It is a very peaceful environment that both animals and guests can enjoy. The ranch was built to board both Asian and African elephants needing temporary or permanent housing, regardless of health or dispositions. Over 250 elephants have passed through the gates of the ranch for a variety of reasons. Some stayed temporarily while their own exhibits were being remodelled or built. Others stayed for retirement, medical needs, behavior problems or even in emergencies after hurricanes destroyed their zoos.

In 2008 Patricia Zerbini decided to start educational programs for private sectors and professionals to learn about elephants. As a result, All About Elephants, Inc. was created. ~ Two Tails Ranch

florida elephant sanctuary

Two Tails Elephant Sanctuary

Their mission…

“To provide for, learn and teach all about elephants, past, present and future. Our goal is to instill awareness through educational programs on site for schools and professionals in north central Florida.”

Between now and September 22, 2013, enter for a chance to WIN a family trip for 4 to vacation at our one of a kind Elephant Sanctuary, Two Tails Ranch (All About Elephants), in Florida. A prize valued at approximately $4,000 CDN*

So what are you waiting for??!! Be a part of this awesome educational program… ENTER NOW! They want to share their love of elephants with you.

P.s. If you live near the Greater Toronto Area, don’t forget you can see Marie & Shelly, two of our amazing elephants, right now as they tour with the Shrine Circus. Get your Two for One General Admission Tickets by using the coupon code “FUN”. The same code and link applies for our Ottawa and Quebec shows in August & September.

SEE YOU UNDER THE BIG TOP!!

*Read the full Rules & Regulations, open to Canada with the exception of Quebec.  Two Tails Ranch is licensed by the USDA and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Department.

#ShrineCircus Twitter Party June 18! Win a Trip to Florida…

The Shrine Circus Twitter Party

Have you ever wanted to run away with the Circus?! Now is your chance. Tuesday June 18th from 8-9pm ET, we will be hosting a Twitter Party.

Follow us at @TheShrineCircus @ShashersLife, @HartGalla and our co-hosts @SoberJulie & @CanadianMomEh from @SplashME2 for a chat about the Greatest Show on Earth.

Get a chance to WIN one of ten family passes for 4 to see The Shrine Circus LIVE in a city near you (Ontario and Quebec) and…

ALL OF CANADA (ex. QC) can enter to WIN our GRAND PRIZE… a family trip for 4 to our one of a kind, Elephant Sanctuary, Two Tails Ranch (All About Elephants), in Williston Florida!! Founded in 1984 by Theodore H. Svertesky (1954-1994) and Patricia L. Zerbini. A prize valued at approximately $4,000*!!

Win a Trip for 4 to Two Tails Ranch in Florida

Win a Trip for 4 to Two Tails Ranch in Florida

PRIZE DETAILS/APPROXIMATE RETAIL VALUES/ODDS: Ten (10) family passes for four (4) General Admission Tickets with an arv of $30 CDN each are available to be won. One (1) Grand Prize consists of return airfare for four (2 adults, 2 children) to Gainesville, Florida from any major gateway in Canada, three nights accommodation and guided tour of Two Tails Ranch www.allaboutelephants.com plus $500.00 USD. Grand Prize approximate value is $4,000 CDN. Taxes are the responsibility of the winner. Odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received during each Draw Period. Limit one (1) prize per person, per Twitter account, and per household. Winner must accept the prize as stated. Prize cannot be substituted, transferred or exchanged or surrendered for cash, except at the sole and absolute discretion of the Contest Sponsors, who reserve the right, at their sole and absolute discretion and for any reason, to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value, including without limitation, a cash award. Unclaimed prizes will not be awarded.

Follow the #ShrineCircus Twitter Party on any Twitter-friendly platform.

Prizes are available to Canadian Residents only (with the exception of the Grand Prize which is not available to residents of Quebec), but all are welcome to the party.

Our Big Top locations in Ontario this year are: Rexdale (Jun 21-Jul 1), Brampton (Jul 5-14), Vaughan (Jul 18-21), Oakville (Jul 25-28), Markham (Aug 2-5) & Ottawa (Aug 9-11).

And in Quebec: Pincourt (Aug 15-18), Lachute (Aug 22-25), Laval (Sept 12-22).

By RSVP’ing below you agree that you have read the Rules and Regulations for the #ShrineCircus Twitter Party taking place on Tuesday June 18 from 8-9pm ET.

Be sure to follow us on Twitter as well as our co-hosts listed above to be eligible to win any of the prizes.

You can purchase tickets for our GTA, Ottawa and Quebec shows here, use the coupon code “FUN” and get your general admission tickets 50% off, 2 for the price of 1!! An amazing deal for an AMAZING show!

*For privacy purposes, the RSVP list has been removed.

Celebrating 250 Years with the TARZAN Zerbini Family Circus

Hello Circus Fans!

We’re getting rave reviews and very positive feedback about the 250th Anniversary Zerbini Circus performed last month in Calgary - it’s unbelievable. Very soon the show will be arriving in the Greater Toronto Area, performing for the Shriners starting on June 21st. It takes place in five convenient locations and runs for a total of 7 weeks!

Toronto Shrine Circus

The Circus Is Coming!

Here’s the story:

The Tarzan Zerbini family circus is coming to the GTA on behalf of the Rameses Shrine, celebrating 70 years of Shrine Circuses in Southern Ontario.

The performers & trainers are rehearsing right now for the most spectacular circus EVER! Please come and see the show at one of these five convenient locations: *Oakville / Mississauga * Brampton * Rexdale * Markham * Vaughan *

2013 is a monumental year for the TARZAN Zerbini Family Circus. Since its humble start in Paris, France in 1763, ten generations of Zerbini families have travelled the world sharing their talents. We’re inviting YOU to be a part of this 250th Anniversary Celebration!

You’ll be taken into a world where you’ll be treated to spectacular performances from around the globe. Hold on to your seats and experience a showcase of talent you’ll never forget!

You’ll see the largest exotic cat act in the world with up to 10 Bengal Tigers plus the TARZAN Zerbini Performing Elephants, Trapeze & Aerial Artistry, Jugglers, Unicycles, High Flying Acrobatics, Cavorting Clowns, the Incredible Circus Wheel and much more!

This is a FAMILY PRICED European style show, presented by CIRCUS FAMILIES from Russia, Germany, Brazil, Argentina, America, & around the world, and proudly yet humbly shared with families like yours - all under the Big Top!

**Use the coupon code “FUN” and get 2 for 1 General Admission Tickets when purchasing online.**

Undoubtedly the most intimate family experience anywhere; this captivating presentation serves to remind all of us of the importance of family, and you’re sure to take a bit of that renewed enthusiasm away with you!

As part of the Zerbini Family’s commitment to the responsible and economically viable preservation of rare, endangered and exotic animals, Patti Zerbini and her husband own and operate an exotic animal sanctuary, “Two Tails Ranch” near Gainesville, Florida; open to the public.

And if you’d like to share this experience with less fortunate children, Kids Up Front works with dozens of GTA youth agencies, distributing free passes and offering a chance to come and see the show. Your support for Kids Up Front is greatly appreciated.

We do hope you’ll come out & celebrate with us under Big Top and we guarantee you will ……. Be Amazed!

Yours in Circusdom,

TARZAN ZERBINI
Producer