Event Details

Experience the sights and sounds of the circus with thrilling feats of derring-do and a stylish sense of whimsy featuring Zany Umbrella Circus, a European-style troupe with imaginative stunts and madcap charm, Sunday, May 20 at the Father Ryan Arts Center, 420 Chartiers Avenue in McKees Rocks. This family-oriented community celebration will astound and delight one and all with a variety of lively entertainment including face painting, caricature drawings, balloon arts and festival foods beginning at 2 pm all leading up to the main event at 3 pm. Zany Umbrella Circus Artistic Director Ben Sota will captivate children and adults alike with his one-man show “My Grandfather's Circus. ” In this whimsical tribute performance, Mr. Sota shares the stories and artistry of dust-bowl era Woonsocket, South Dakota by bringing everyday objects to life and creating circus from unexpected situations. This popular show has been performed at the White House and around the world. The Father Ryan Arts Center proudly welcomes internationally renowned Zany Umbrella Circus to its summer artist-in-residence program. This effort kicks off the Festival of Family Fun Season, a series of interactive, cultural and educational programming for children and families. With another performance scheduled in July, Zany Umbrella Circus along with resident artist groups such as Actors Civic Theater and Mid-Atlantic Contemporary Ballet, the aim is to offer a variety of programs that introduce children and youth to new experiences, cultural awareness and creative problem-solving activities. “The vibrant line-up of productions will add a new dimension to the cultural identity of McKees Rocks. Our goal is to create a community of patrons who engage with the work and the artists to form long-term relationships between our residents and the arts,” said Pat Moran, Father Ryan Arts Center Director. Proceeds from the event will help to support arts education and programming presented at Father Ryan Arts Center annually. Tickets are $12 (adults) and $6 (children) in advance or $15 (adults) and $8 (children) at the door. Space is limited and tickets are strongly encouraged. Call 412-771-3052 to purchase tickets.