Cirque Italia makes a splash Michiana with the first traveling water circus in the US

MISHAWAKA, Ind.,--Cirque Italia is making a splash this weekend right here in Michiana.

The group kicked off an all new water circus tour in Mishawaka in the University Park Mall parking lot.

Since 2012, Cirque Italia has brought European style circus performances across the United States. This year, it is bringing the first travelling water circus act to local stages.

One worker, Bogdan Midi, mentioned the owner wanted to expand the joys of more extravagant shows.

“We’re the first water traveling circus in America because our owner, Manuel Rebecchi, wanted to bring a more intimate, more unique experience--something you see in Bellagio in Vegas with circus-type shows,” said Midi. 

The performance features acts like hair hanging, juggling, the “Wheel of Death,” aerial stunts and more. Manager—and mermaid—Morgaine Rosenthal, stated that the animal-free show is devoted to featuring the performers’ acts.

“So, when the owner of Cirque Italia, Manuel Rebecchi, when he created Cirque Italia, he wanted to do something different for the American audience," said Rosenthal. "And so, he decided to leave the elephants and the tigers in the jungle. He wanted to focus on the abilities of the human body, and that’s when he came up with the water stage.”

The show features a pirate-themed storyline, Midi added.

“The storyline, it’s about our clown, Raffinia, going on this treasure hunt, and throughout his quest, he meets all these characters which are portrayed by our performances," said Midi. "In the end, if he finds the treasure or not, you’ll have to come and see.”

The show is two hours long. If interested, tickets range from $25 to $50 and can be purchased here. 

Upcoming shows:

• FRIDAY: 7:30PM
• SATURDAY: 1:30PM, 4:30PM, 7:30PM
• SUNDAY: 1:30PM, 4:30PM

Masks are recommended.