The fourth-generation Oklahoma-based Carson & Barnes Circus will debut a show in Greenwood this weekend featuring a live take on prehistoric creatures from dinosaurs to woolly mammoths.
The group will perform four “Circus Saurus” shows at the Leflore County Civic Center — at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. Sunday.
For its 81st season, the traditional Big Top show will feature the dinosaur portion in addition to clowns and other fan favorites.
“We have different themes every year, and we thought it was something that children would relate to,” said Traci Byrd Cavallini, a staff member of the Carson & Barnes Circus. “We kind of like the idea of showing the extinct and the endangered.”
Several giants in today’s world and from millions of years ago can be seen such as the Tyrannosaurus, Deinonychus, woolly mammoth and Asian elephant. Audiences can expect a performance by three Deinonychus dinosaurs — Rumble, Rascal and Rebel — and several other dinosaur performances.
The more traditional circus performances will be spread out during the almost two-hour show with acts including horses, jugglers, and aerial artists.
The animals will be on display before and after the show including a petting zoo with llamas, a miniature zebu and goats.
Children will also be able to participate in different activities such as dinosaur-themed bounce houses and elephant rides.
“We feel like it’s a great form of family entertainment,” Cavallini said.
Children under 12 are eligible for one free admission ticket coupon for one paying adult. Coupons and tickets can be found at www.carsonbarnescircus.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.
•Contact Lauren Randall at 581-7239 or lrandall@gwcommonwealth.com.
