Planet Circus is fun for all the family
THE organisers of the Planet Circus OMG currently in Southport are promising family entertainment for the mobile phone age.
The circus, run by the Mack-Pavlov family, is in town until April 17 and will feature clowns, acrobats and a motorcycle wheel of death.
It is the first time that Planet Circus has visited Southport for five years and the family say they offer a spectacle which is unrivalled in the country.
Such is the popularity of Planet, camera crews are filming the latest tour for a Channel 4 documentary.
Mark Whitney, the producer and director of the circus, said: “We’ve all been doing this our whole lives so it’s something we’re very proud of.
“It’s an internet age but this is something that is live, and you’re not going to experience on a phone or computer.
“It’s circus for the mobile phone age. It’s big, loud and bright. Kids don’t get a chance to get bored.
The 50-strong team who work on the circus are on the road for 42 weeks each year and Mark, who used to work as the ringmaster, says a love for the job is necessary for a successful show.
“It’s hard work but it’s enjoyable,” Mark said. “We get to go to all these places around the country and see and meet all these people.
“If only I had a pound for everyone who said ‘I want to run away with the circus’. There’s something romantic about the idea.”
As well as being made for families, the show is also made by families and features well-known names including the Broph Family Western Act, Peter Pavlov and Team Brazil performing with fire and water to create a grand spectacle.
“It’s a family event and I’m a firm believer in the importance of family, and in putting on shows that everyone can enjoy,’’ said Mark. “The way I see it is that it’s our family show for your family.’’
After five years away, Mark said the family are delighted to be back in Southport.
“It’s a lovely place to be. We love the North East and the North West.
“When I knew we were coming back to Southport, I was very excited.”
Planet Circus OMG is in Southport until April 17, with shows taking place at 3pm and 6pm on weekdays, 2pm and 5pm on Saturdays, and 1pm and 3.30pm on Easter Sunday and Monday.