The Culpepper and Merriweather Circus, a circus troupe out of Oklahoma operating for over 100 years, visited Munising on Friday, July 7. A regular stop on trips through Michigan every other year, this was the first time the circus stopped in town since the pandemic. The circus held two shows on the night and hosted hundreds of people.

Altogether, the circus had numerous showcases, ranging from an adolescent lions and clowns to feats of balance and skill on the tightrope and trapeze. Outside on the pavilion were pony rides, jump houses and face painting.

Multiple members of the audience got to join the show during various set changes or coming out of intermission. Ten-year-old Vivian was able to help with one of the clown routines.

“It was kind of embarrassing but fun at the same time,” she said. “I really wanted to try it and see what it would be like to volunteer.”

Adults also joined in on the fun with Munising’s Nick Bates helping out in a trick frisbee routine. Admitting a lack of frisbee experience, Bates was still able to perform in front of his family.

“It was awesome. I encourage (my kids) to do things that may make them nervous, so it was a good experience,” he said.

The show was the first stop for the circus in the Upper Peninsula before heading to the U.P. State Fairgrounds for four more shows before continuing on its tour.