Kids Run Away With The Circus

If kids keep learning tricks like this one at the Peru Amateur Circus, they actually stand a chance at joining the real circus.

Friday, July 16, 2010 1:09 GMT

The Peru Amateur Circus in Peru, Indiana, trains kids ages seven to 21 in all things Big Top, including trapeze and walking on the high wire.

After months of tireless work, current students are showing off what they’ve learned tomorrow (Jul. 17) through July 24 at the Circus City Festival.

They’ll be performing 11 shows that feature high-flying stunts through the air, including a six-person pyramid on the high wire.

Although the stars are “just regular kids,” spokesperson Christina Cawood says their performances are on par with professionals.

They’re so good, in fact, that many students later run away and join real circuses or work as stunt doubles.

Regardless of whether they make the circus their full time gig, Cawood says the students also learn life skills they can apply to other professions.