New York’s beloved one-ring circus brings an all-new production, international performers and plenty of thrills to Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

The Big Apple Circus is getting ready to raise its famous Big Top once again, but this year with a new address and an all-new show. While Lincoln Center undergoes renovations, the longtime New York favorite is moving east to Marx Brothers Playground, on East 96th Street between First and Second Avenues.

Running from November 27, 2026, through January 18, 2027, the new production promises the combination of daring acrobatics, aerial artistry, comedy and extraordinary feats of skill that have made the circus a holiday tradition for generations of New York families.

The 2026 production features an international roster of performers, bringing together established circus artists and exciting new acts.

Meet This Year’s Performers

Brett Alters – Ringmaster

A dynamic performer, clown and host, Brett Alters has appeared internationally in circuses, concerts and theaters. His credits include Cirque du Soleil, America’s Got Talent, P!NK, Slava’s Snowshow and Spiegelworld. A graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts, he also holds a master’s degree in Drama Therapy.

Anton and Frank

The father-and-son comedy duo Anton and Viktor Franke, originally from Saint Petersburg, Russia, combine traditional circus skills with physical comedy, slapstick and acrobatics. Their high-energy performances rely on impeccable timing and visual humor that appeals to audiences of all ages.

The Cardenas Brothers

With more than 15 years of experience and a lifetime in circus tradition, the Cárdenas Brothers perform the spectacular Wheel of Death. Their act combines extraordinary athleticism, precision and daring as they tackle one of the circus’s most challenging attractions.

Bingo Troupe

Hailing from Kyiv, the Bingo Troupe has entertained international audiences for nearly three decades. Known for its infectious energy and commanding stage presence, the ensemble has performed throughout Europe and the Far East.

Sky Angels

Award-winning aerial duo Kristina Vorobeva and Rustem Osmanov present a remarkable Iron Jaw performance, in which they suspend and support one another using only their teeth and a mouth-held strap. Performed high above the stage without a safety net, their act combines exceptional strength, precision and aerial artistry.

Triple Breath

Led by Kristina Vorobeva, Triple Breath is an award-winning high-wire act featuring daring acrobatics and spectacular three-person-high formations. Recognized at the Monte Carlo International Circus Festival with the Bronze Clown, the performers demonstrate extraordinary balance, concentration and teamwork.

The Olate Family

Winners of America’s Got Talent, the Olate Family brings three generations of performing-dog talent to the circus ring. Their four-legged performers delight audiences with flips, jumps, dances and playful comedy.

Jimmy Saylon & Co.

Born into a circus family, Jimmy Saylon combines generations of circus tradition with grand illusions and theatrical storytelling. A veteran of major European circuses and international festivals, his signature “Time Machine” act features astonishing transformations, escapes and surprises.

Valentina Vazquez

A fourth-generation circus performer, Valentina Vazquez showcases her skill on the low wire. Having performed with Circus Vazquez and Flip Circus, she brings a contemporary, energetic approach to this traditional circus discipline. She also shares her training and backstage experiences with millions of followers on social media.

artistry and balance on the low wire.

A New Address, the Same Circus Tradition

Founded in 1977 by Paul Binder and Michael Christensen, the Big Apple Circus has distinguished itself through its intimate one-ring format, bringing audiences remarkably close to the performers. Its combination of international talent, traditional circus artistry and family entertainment has made it an enduring part of New York’s cultural landscape.

The move to Marx Brothers Playground provides a new setting for this year’s holiday production without changing the spirit of the Big Apple Circus.

The performance runs approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, including intermission. Showtimes vary by date.

When: November 27, 2026 – January 18, 2027
Where: Marx Brothers Playground, East 96th Street between First and Second Avenues, New York, NY 10029.

The location is accessible by the 6 train to 96th Street, followed by a short walk east, as well as the M96 and M15 buses.

Tickets: Visit the official Big Apple Circus website for tickets and showtimes.

From the Hi Class Living Archives

We’ve followed the Big Apple Circus through several seasons and different productions. Revisit our previous coverage:

• Big Apple Circus 2025–26 Season Brings the World’s Best Under the Big Top
• The NYC Big Apple Circus Featured “Hometown Playground” 2024–2025
• Big Apple Circus and the European Roncalli Circus, 2023

The Big Apple Circus returns with a new show, a new location and another opportunity to experience the magic of the circus in New York City.