After a one-year hiatus due to tornado damage, Florida State University’s Flying High Circus is back under the big top for its 15th annual Halloween Show Series.
The family-friendly Halloween-themed performances will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17; Saturday, Oct. 18; Friday, Oct. 24; and Saturday, Oct. 25. Doors open one hour before showtime.
The show features a thriller-style production with flying skeletons and dancing zombies, marking the circus’s first full performance in its new tent, which replaced the one destroyed last year.
“This year’s Halloween show series is so exciting because not only is it our first show series back under the big top, but I know that a lot of people, including myself, are looking forward to showing everything we’ve been working on for the past year,” said Jake Radtke, a senior double-majoring in psychology and criminology and fourth-year cast member.
Chad Mathews, director of the FSU Flying High Circus, said he is always excited for any show launch, but this year feels especially meaningful.
“With all we have gone through over the past year and a half, it’s a relief to be able to function like normal,” he said. “Our Halloween show presents so much differently than our other traditional shows. Once in their makeup and costumes, our performers really have fun and get into character. That, along with the music, lighting and effects we employ, really make for an enjoyable experience.”
The circus hosted three sold-out sessions during Family Weekend in September, featuring tent tours, juggling and concessions. The Halloween Show Series will be its first full production since April 2024.
Iris Dahlborg, a junior pursuing a degree in civil and environmental engineering and third-year performer, said she is looking forward to returning to the stage.
“It’s so exciting to see all of our hard work from the past year pay off, both in terms of physical labor put into rebuilding the tent and getting to showcase some of the work from the past year,” Dahlborg said. “A huge aspect of clowning is breaking the fourth wall, so I’m especially looking forward to interacting with a live audience again.”
Limited tickets are available for all shows. Admission is free for students with an FSU ID. Faculty and staff receive a special discount. Only clear bags will be allowed inside the performance tent.
For tickets and more information about the FSU Flying High Circus, visit circus.fsu.edu.
FSU Circus “Stake” Holders
Just as the Big Top relies on its stakes for stability, the FSU Flying High Circus depends on community support to thrive. Help lift the program to new heights by becoming an FSU Circus “Stake” Holder. Donations will help fund student training, costume fabrication, equipment, community outreach and more.
Learn more about preserving the circus for future generations.