Big Top returns to raceway

MONTICELLO, NY — The Cole Bros. Circus of the Stars will be back in Monticello on Thursday, July 5 and Friday, July 6, complete with acrobats, denizens of clown alley, daredevil aerial artists and more than a score of educated animal performers.

Perennial favorites are the “Biggest Stars on the Planet,” elephants who perform with rider Jessica Kramer under the aegis of trainer Will Jacobs. Jacobs, who stands in the shadows as his protégés perform, says he feels comfortable assuming the role of “most forgettable performer” at the Cole Bros. Circus. “People come to see the elephants, not me, and Tina and Jewel not only know their routine but love to perform on their own, so I let them.”

There will also be horses trained by equestrian expert Lyuba Tchepiakova, the Abuhadba family’s assortment of energetic poodles ranging from miniatures to standards, flying trapeze artists and a human cannonball. For an early treat, visitors can view the tent raising on Thursday, June 5 from 7:00 to 10:00 a.m., for free.

Performances are scheduled for 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. on both days. Tickets are on sale in advance through July 4 at The Family Drug Store at 524 Broadway in Monticello and at Video Mania in Liberty Plaza, at 187 Mill Street in Liberty. They may also be obtained at www.tickets.com, or 888/332-5200.

Adult admission costs $17, children under 13 $12.

For more information visit colebroscircus.com