Picadilly Circus - Review

My family drove to Orem, Utah yesterday to attend the Picadilly Circus. As a family, we have never attended a circus before. This was probably a good thing. I should disclose immediately that we received complimentary vouchers for the family to attend in exchange for an honest review.

Neal and Amberly were already grumpy and determined not to like circuses even before we arrived. Amberly claimed and I quote, "circuses are for babies". I really wasn't expecting much and was actually surprised by the crowds waiting in line for tickets. Because of our passes, we were able to go right in and were lucky enough to get the few soft seats on the front row.

According to the web site and the advertising the show was supposed to start at 4:30. We waited at least until 5:00 before the show actually began. We spent that time reminding our children that we would not be paying money for them to pet the llamas or ride the ponies. We would also not be buying the over priced popcorn and cotton candy. We never buy the concessions at shows so they are already used to this rule. I'm sure the extra time between the advertised start time and the actual show time was an attempt to get more parents to relax this rule (assuming that other parents have this rule).

Once the show started, I have to admit that I was entertained. Thomas, at six years, old loved every minute--especially the clowns. He laughed and clapped and shouted. At one point I looked over to see that Thomas was so excited, he was literally trembling.

I caught Neal smiling once or twice at the motorcyclists in the cage. Amberly was slightly amused by the contortionist. They think they're too cool. Lilly and Molly watched the entire show in silence and it is still difficult to measure their pleasure or confusion. They appeared to be mesmerized.

The elephants were pretty impressive. I was disappointed that there were not very many animal acts. The performers made me think of "stupid human tricks" although they really are quite talented. Strange, but talented.

Even finding out that the tickets were fairly reasonably priced (If you buy one adult ticket, you get one free and each adult can get in some kids for free. Although I'm not sure how many), I'm still not sure if I would actually pay money to see the show.

If you go expecting the best show on earth, you will be disappointed. Think of it this way, the Picadilly Circus is to The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus (which I only attended once as a child but can still remember as an amazing show) as the rides at the state fair are to Lagoon Amusement Park. We know the difference, but we still have a good time at the state fair. We still had a good time at the Picadilly Circus.

And because Thomas had such a fabulous time, it was definitely worth the trip.

The Picadilly Circus is in Orem for two more shows today and will be in West Valley City tomorrow.