GRAND CROSSING —After its first performance last year at Ogden and Grand Crossing parks proved successful, the Midnight Circus in the Parks is returning for an encore performance, its founder said.
The traveling circus will have a 4 p.m. show Aug. 30 and 31 at the Grand Crossing Park, 7655 S. Ingleside Ave., followed by a 3 p.m. show Sept. 6 and 7 at Ogden Park, 6500 S. Racine Ave. Tickets, which can be bought online, are $15 for children and $20 for adults.
All proceeds raised from ticket sales will be donated to local park advisory councils, Chicago Park District officials said. According to Jeff Jenkins, founder of the circus, nearly $700,000 has been raised for local park improvements since the circus tour began in 2007.
One thing you won't see at this circus is traditional animals like lions, elephants and horses.
"Our circus does not use 'non-companion' animals normally seen at the circus. Believe it or not, a circus can be a success without the use of wild animals," said Jenkins, a 47-year-old Lincoln Square resident. "Then there is June Bug, a pit bull I rescued from dog fighting. She can do anything you ask her to do."
Jenkins, who previously performed as a clown in several circuses including Ringling Bros., performs regularly in the circus with his wife, Julie, 9-year-old son Max and 6-year-old daughter Samantha.
"A circus is supposed to be a family event," said Jenkins. "That is why we all perform."
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