Circus returns to Ypsilanti on Friday
A couple of hours later, the area will be transformed into a classic scene, with brightly-colored tents, clowns, acrobats and all kinds of exotic animals.
For the third year running, the Ypsilanti Area Jaycees are bringing the Oklahoma-based Kelly Miller Circus to town.
Adam Stolt, chairperson for the Jaycees' circus committee, said last year's circus raised $2,200 for the organization, and they are hoping to make the circus their major fundraiser for the year.
"It enables the Ypsilanti Area Jaycees to fund a bunch of charitable efforts in the community throughout the year," Stolt said, "such as Thanksgiving baskets for needy families, Ypsilanti Pride's city beautification project in the spring, and sponsoring families during the holiday season."
There will be two performances on Friday, at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. In addition, anyone can come out to see the elephants raise the big top at 9 a.m., and free guided tours are offered.
In addition to the elephants, other exotic animals on display include horses, camels, llamas, ponies, tigers and miniature Sicilian donkeys.
Highlights of the performances include Casey McCoy and his five tigers, juggler Raul Olivares, mid-air maneuvers, a ballet at the apex of the arena, and, of course, performing elephants.
Advance tickets are on sale now — $10.00 for adults and $6.00 for children under 12 — and can be purchased online at www.ypsilantijaycees.com, or at one of five ticket sales outlets: Cafe Luwak, The Rocket, Hershey's Ice Cream, Key Bank on E. Michigan Avenue, and the Lakeside Health Club.
Tickets will also be available at the gate, but they will cost more, and a greater percentage will go to the Kelly Miller Circus instead of the Jaycees, Stolt said.
Event sponsor Aachen Auto has purchased 60 tickets for the Jaycees to distribute to area children. Anyone with donation suggestions can email Stolt at ypsijaycee@gmail.com. Those interested in group tours can also contact him.
Jen Eyer is on the Community Team at AnnArbor.com. She can be reached at 734-623-2577 or jeneyer@annarbor.com, or you can visit her at the first floor office at 301 East Liberty.