Big top returns to Deception Bay

It's been 20 years since Ashton’s The Great Australian Circus last rolled into Deception Bay, but the wait is almost over.

The big top is returning from November 13 to 29, bringing a mix of breathtaking aerial acts, daring acrobatics, comedy and motorbike stunts to entertain audiences of all ages.

Among the highlights will be the Amaral Globe Riders from Brazil, whose daring motorbike performances are part of a show that also features mind-bending contortionists, fiery dance and high-flying acrobats.

While the acts have evolved over the years, the family behind the circus has a history stretching back more than a century and a half.

Established in 1850, the Ashton family circus has entertained generations of Australians, surviving two world wars, the Great Depression, the COVID-19 shutdowns and changing tastes in entertainment.

Now in its sixth generation, the family business is led by Chantel Ashton-Rodriguez, who grew up under the big top and began performing at just two years old in her family's bareback horse-riding act.

Since then, she has mastered a range of circus disciplines, from aerial silks and trampoline to Russian Bar, before going on to co-found Ashton Entertainment in 2010.

Chantel became owner and director in 2017 and now oversees the production, choreography and performances, helping carry the family's circus traditions into a new era.

That blend of old and new will be on show when the circus returns to Deception Bay, giving local families the chance to experience a tradition that has been entertaining Australians for 176 years.

Tickets start from $15, with performances running from November 13 to 29.

For more information and bookings, visit here.

WIN TICKETS TO OPENING NIGHT

Moreton Daily has 10 double passes to give away for opening night on Friday, November 13.

To enter, head to our Facebook competition post and tag someone you'd love to take to the circus. Each tag counts as one entry.

Entries close at 9am on Monday, November 9, with winners announced later that day.

Enter the circus ticket giveaway on Facebook.