Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus debuted a new show last night, the first of six performances that continue through Sunday at McKenzie Arena.
Illuscination showcases the talents of David DaVinci, who bridges the world of magic with the traditional wonderment of the circus.
Among his tricks is an attempt to escape a straitjacket while suspended three stories above a den of lions.
His co-stars are a flock of 10 birds. These cockatoos, macaws, toucan and African gray take flights of fantasy around the arena and even perform illusions of their own.
Other animal acts feature a herd of Asian elephants; a pride of lionesses and a rare white lion; and a stable of horses and miniature ponies that create a living carousel.
Other acts hint at the performers' daredevil nature.
* The Kung Fu Kings combine mixed martial arts with mind-boggling strength. Their feats include twisting solid metal poles around their bodies and diving blindfolded through hoops of razer-sharp sabers.
* The daring Medeiros Troupe will perform part of their high-wire act on a motorcycle.
* Francleib Rodrigues will create a sky-high sensation by walking using foot loops suspended from the ceiling.
The Salsations execute extreme flips and somersaults in midair.
To further immerse fans into the wonderment, the circus is offering a limited number of VIP floor seats. According to producers, the seats are close enough to see the twinkle in the clowns' eyes, gaze at the wrinkles in the elephants' hide and watch muscles flinch as the acrobats launch themselves into the air.
IF YOU GO
* What: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
* When: 7 p.m. today; 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday; and 2 p.m. Saturday.
* Where: McKenzie Arena, corner of Fourth and Mabel streets.
* Admission: $15 and $21; limited number of VIP seats $26 and $36.
* Phone: 266-6627.
* Web site: www.ringling.com.
EARLY ACCESS
Ticketholders who arrive one hour early can try on costumes, walk the low wire and meet many of the show's performers.