Shriners bring animal-packed balancing act to Coeur d’Alene

The elephants, tigers, ponies, trapeze artists and acrobats are coming to Coeur d’Alene. But in this circus, no big top.

The Shrine Circus, with two performances Saturday, will take place at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds’ main arena – offering a chance to soak in spring and razzle-dazzle at the same time.

Proceeds will support Shriners Hospitals for Children and benefit the Shriners’ transportation fund for patients and families, said Rob Turnipseed, potentate of the Calam Shriners, the chapter covering northern Idaho.

The hospitals provide care for children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries and other special needs. Their 22 locations include a hospital on West Fifth Avenue in Spokane.

The circus will be performed by the artists and animals in Las Vegas-based Jordan World Circus, which boasts, among other features, lions, tigers, “amazing aerialists,” clowns, “dashing, daring, dauntless daredevils,” “boundless feats of balance and agility” and “hazardous horsemanship.”

“It is very entertaining,” Turnipseed said. “The kids really do love coming.”

Adrian Rogers

When: 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday.

Where: Kootenai County Fairgrounds, 4056 N. Government Way in Coeur d’Alene.

Tickets: $12/adults; $10/children 12 and younger. Available at the gate or Super 1 Foods stores in Coeur d’Alene, Rathdrum, Post Falls and Hayden.