There is something that makes my heart swoon a little when I see child performers. Maybe it is their earnestness or that their enthusiasm is infectious, but I almost get teary with pride to see amazingly talented young people making it work on stage. But, for the purpose of this review, I almost want to put aside the fact that we’re talking about kids because the incredible thing about this troupe is that they can compete with professionals on almost every level.

Yes, there were two or three instances where a spotter was on hand for some of the more dangerous tricks, the tight ropes were about 5 feet off the ground, not 25, and there were a couple dropped juggling balls, but we see those at almost all shows and a trick done at 5 feet is the same trick at 25, just higher up. So, in my opinion, none of those little setbacks took away from the tremendous professionalism of this group. What we did get was an artistically directed show that flowed well, had great choreography, beautiful costuming and set design, and a terrific variety of acts that kept us interested throughout.

Circus Smirkus isn’t clowning around when it comes to instilling values in kids, either. Those values infuse everything they do. As a not for profit, all the ticket and concession sales go right back into scholarships for circus camps, their touring company, and their in-school programs. I also love that the concession stand uses reusable plastic cups rather than throwaways. You can take yours home or leave it behind and it will be washed, sanitized and reused at the next show.

I know I’m gushing like a proud parent (I have no relationship with Circus Smirkus or anyone involved with them), but if you haven’t gotten it by now, I highly recommend you check them out. The Circus Smirkus Big Top Tour will be stopping around Massachusetts, Vermont and Maine through the middle of August, including shows in Waltham from July 25-27. See the complete schedule of shows and get tickets at smirkus.org.