In Uncertain Times for Circuses, Smirkus Thrives - CircusTalk

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In Uncertain Times for Circuses, Smirkus Thrives

GREENSBORO— Ringling Bros. Circus may be gone, but for many in Vermont’s homegrown Circus Smirkus, the circus is still the greatest show on earth.

The year 2017 marks some important milestones in circus hist ory, both nationally and locally. This year marks Smirkus’ 30th anniversary, and also when its longtime executive director, Ed LeClair, will step down.

“It’s very much like the politicians say, ‘I’m going to spend more time with my family,’” said LeClair, who has overseen 15 annual seasons of the Greensboro traveling troupe. “I’ve spent my career making stars and now I get to sit back and watch the stars.”

Not quite, it seems. LeClair revealed that there will be a second act in the circus world for him.

LeClair said he would be part of a new organization that will try to “unify the circus” in an attempt to spur a comeback for the industry nationally. “Right now, it’s referring to itself as ‘Circus Umbrella,’” LeClair said…

Link to the full article at The Times Argus

 

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