Venardos Circus returns to Redmond, with COVID-19 restrictions in place

(Update: Adding video, comments)

Hosting first shows since pandemic hit in March

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- It's been more than seven months since The Venardos Circus has been able to put up its classic red-and-white tent. For the first time since the pandemic hit in March, the show returned Thursday to the fairgrounds in Redmond, with several changes in place to keep performers and the public safe.

Heather Blount-Elliot, who handles media for the event, told NewsChannel 21, "It will be a little crazy, since this is our first show since March and many new people helping seat people, take (tickets) and such, with all new COVID protocols and seating pods."

A limited in-person audience will be let into see the shows at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center. There are four-person pods set up at least six feet apart around center stage.

Circus Producer and Ringmaster Kevin Venardos said many of the performers have felt the effects of the pandemic after being away from live performances for more than seven months.

"They represent folks, just like all of you out there, who have struggled through these last seven months," he told NewsChannel 21. "Some people have lost their jobs, some people have lost their homes, but for sure it's been an incredible emotional stress.

"I can't wait to take people away from that for a couple of hours here. My crew and staff are thrilled to be a part of bringing that to those families. I'm grateful."

The performers have their own set of guidelines they have to follow, like wearing masks on stage when they are within six feet of each other.

One of the show's dancers, Nicole Laumb, told NewsChannel 21 the masks are a unique change, but don't really affect the production too much.

"Apart from an added accessory, which I don't think circus performers are ever mad at, the feel inside the tent is very much just a full-on production of that kind of wondrous circus charm you only get in a big top," she said. "That's exactly the same, and even better."

Their circus, dubbed as the 'Spooky Spectacular,' will have shows all Halloween weekend, from Thursday through Sunday.

You can learn more and buy tickets by visiting their website.