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CIRCUS 1903 - The Golden Age of Circus (Chicago)
Step right up! Step right up!The producers of the world’s biggest magic show, The Illusionists, have teamed up with the award winning puppeteers from War Horse to present a thrilling turn of the century circus spectacular.Sensational puppetry puts Elephants back in the ring as never seen before along with a huge cast of the most unique, amazing and dangerous circus acts from all four corners of the world, from strong men to contortionists, acrobats to musicians, knife throwers, high wire and much more!Discover the golden age of circus this summer as CIRCUS 1903 – The Golden Age of Circus gets set to captivate audiences of all ages.
CIRCUS 1903 - The Golden Age of Circus (Chicago) Concert & Tour Photos
Fan Reviews
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Neenee05
We were amazed with the acts; everything was so well choreographed. The ringmaster was engaging and very funny and the puppetry of the elephants was extraordinary !!! The audience loved this show!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Reynalda
The puppeters with the animals, beautiful dances, comical tumblers, and ambience were extraordinary.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Karynbien
Very entertaining and funny. So many daring feats- there were so many times we held our breath while these amazing entertainers did the seemingly impossible. Would love to see it again and again.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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danimmmmm
We loved this show! Different from regular theatre - very entertaining. I highly recommend -you will sit with a smile on your face for the entire show!!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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123aaaa
It was like a real circus, we were spellbound, lots of fun
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Taz6
Was not sure what to expect going in, and left fully entertained. Great circus acts, stunts, acrobatics, tricks, and wonderful entertainment. They really did take you back to the golden age of the Circus. Wish this was in town longer so I could get more friends and family to go.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Anonymous
We weren't sure what to expect, but we loved it! Lots of laughter.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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MMKK9
I went to see the production because I found the ad intriguing and was interested in the animal puppetry. I had studied LeCoq in Europe and immediately recognized the pedagogy in the production but had not encountered much of it in American productions. The piece was absolutely enchanting and the era in which it was set lent it a romantic air. I was in awe of the performers and marveled at the reaction of the audience - the adults (of which there were many) were more entranced than the children! Definitely a production one should experience if at all possible.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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CSandCS
My daughter and I loved this event and she is 19 years old, great for any age!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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BC2010
Circus 1903 was simply wonderful entertainment! The acts were spellbinding. We took our granddaughters aged 8 and 10 and all four of us were thrilled. There were acrobats, jugglers, aerial acts and a remarkable contortionist! For us there was a bonus of NO CLOWNS. One of the girls is terribly afraid of clowns and we were fearing a move to a new seat, but the ushers on aisle 3 assure us that there weren't any clowns. The Oriental Theater is a beautiful venue and our seats gave us the feeling of an intimate old time circus!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Couch
I wasn't sure what to expect, thinking maybe it was a play or musical about the circus. But, it was more like just going to a circus. Great performances. Entertaining ringmaster.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Genebony
Great show with nonstop activity. My 6 and 9 year old grandchildren loved it.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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OQErazo
When I purchased tickets to the show I was excited to see a portrayal of what a circus experience was like in 1903, but I was very disappointed. Outside of mentioning the year several times throughout the show, they never explained how the circus came to be, what times were like in 1903, how did it grow, basically no history or backstory. The entire show was a series of performances that seemed a little bit novice. I would have enjoyed learning something about the circus or Ringling Bros.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Bushman7984
We took our 7 year old twins to their first Broadway in Chicago event and they absolutely loved it. We would definitely recommend for families!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Anonymous
My wife and I loved this show. It was joyous, funny and the performers amazed us. It was truly special. We were entertained and wow'd by incredible acts.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Hospicemt
Such a creative show! Great circus talent, loved the Elephants! This shows that our beloved circus experiences can still happen and be JUST as fun and satisfying without live animals. Really, really enjoyed the experience! Love how the "Ringmaster" engages kids in the audience, which only adds to the event.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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LittleRedTT2
I bought tickets to Circus 1903 for my brother and his family as a Christmas gift. They loved the show. My niece has been talking about the "acts" for days. She particularly liked the woman in the circular ring and calls her "the lady in the moon."
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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MrPeter
Very entertaining, a combination of circus act, great music, comedy, magic, puppetry, and theatrics. I just wish it was a little longer, it was two hours exactly, also I believe the music was prerecorded as I did not see a live orchestra.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Anonymous
Me and my parents had so much fun, very nice show.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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hubbardhigh
It was the GREATEST show on earth! Great variety of acts, laughs and suspense.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sun, Mar 26, 2017
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Marib3rri
Circus 1903 was just like being at the real circus!!! The ringmaster was absolutely wonderful!! The circus acts were very exciting. I really liked the way the audience was brought into the show. The elephants were adorable especially the baby one.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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Smilesfor4
Circus 1903 was funny, amazing, and exciting for my whole family!!!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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ROGOdoc
I was surprised that it was that good. my daughter who is 17 ,not impressed with a lot of things, she loved it
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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Procleaner
I surprised my my wife and kids, by taking them to see this show, what a great performance. I would highly recommend it
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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Winter1derful
With many circus' leaving because of complaints about the animals, you forget that a circus is much more than just animal acts. This show was well put together, but there were two small mishaps. Thankfully, no one was hurt. Still very enjoyable.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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dibeadyb
Very entertaining show for kids and adults alike! Everything you could want in a circus and none of the things you don't!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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GrammyCC
Wasn't first on my list, but a decent price for a decent seat said "why not." Despite crummy weather the show and production was really very good. Hard to put that kind of entertainment into the Oriental Venue, but they did a great job. Enjoyed it very much.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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Broadwayrod
Enchanting, beautiful, different. What a nice surprise! From start to finish it pulls you in.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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Oldbuzzard54
This was one of the best, most innovative shows I have seen. This was a repeat since I attended Wednesday nights performance as well. The performers had such high energy levels and dedication to their art. The show was fast paced but that was good. You got wowed again and again. There was no time to get bored. The ringmaster was a true delight to watch - a true master of working the audience. All of the performers were outstanding in their own way. They all were truly the cream of the crop.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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bigmarcd
Don't get me wrong the performances were very nice. but if you are expecting a play about the circus in 1903, that is not what this is, this is a presentation of circus performances circa 1903. now this would have been interesting for 2 hours in 1903 but in 2017, it went on and on.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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Tricia1988
I wasn't sure what to expect but we were delighted by the acts and the entire evening was enjoyed by all! Brought my four kids ages 17,15,13,11 and they all loved it
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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zachary27
I really had no idea what to expect, and was very surprised and entertained by the entire show. I really like how the children were incorporated into the show, lots of laughs. I keep telling people how great it was.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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Eddiesmusic
I'd go again. The show was super intertaining from the beginning to the end.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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Ikeys
I have not seen anything this spectacular since Kinky Boots came to town pre Broadway
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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Jacksonteacup
This was more than I had expected .. Mesmerizing from Start to Finish
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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JRascal
Really was excited when I heard that the puppeteers were the same from "War Horse". That was amazing. Although the puppets were great (Elephants replaced Horses) stage time was very short. The performers were good. Music wasn't live.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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AliciaJA
I loved the concept, the performances, and costumes. However, there were missed production opportunities. More puppets could have been added (lions and tigers) and the ending could have been more electric. Also felt there was a lot of wasted time bringing children on stage. I understand it is a family show but at our 2 pm Saturday performance there were few children in the audience.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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markc616
The show brought me back to my childhood. The great memories that would put me on the edge of my seat. The dancing and performers were the best I have ever seen. It is a great family friendly show. I would go again.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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BellaErik
This was like being at the circus without the animal abuse and carnies:) The acts were absolutely incredible - such talent! And all the kids seemed to LOVE it!. The level of enthusiasm and excitement in the audience was amazing.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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ChgoFan
Incredible performers on every level from the "Ringmaster" to the acrobats to the elephants (puppets). I wasn't quite sure how the show would give the audience a true circus experience, but they did. AMAZING!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Sat, Mar 25, 2017
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auntiru
There was nothing special about this. Even saw multiple mistakes. Sorry I went
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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stickyfingers4
Had a very good time from start to finish what's going on on the stage
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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Goddivaldi
Highly recommend. There was so much talent in this show, and in the words of Emril, every act really kicked it up a notch to give the audience an amazing show and a good time. Don't forget to breathe, because you will want to hold you breath during some of the impossible feats performed!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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lolsonod
Thoroughly enjoyable family fun. Laughed out loud at times, jaw dropped at other times.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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DaniErs
If you get a chance to see Circus 1903 I suggest you pounce!! This show is amazing and unforgettable! The cast are friendly, funny and their feats are once in a lifetime! I was laughing and gasping throughout this high energy show. The human dedication and creativity that went into making 1903 are awesome, I will not be forgetting my trip to Circus 1903! And the best part is, no animals!! The Theater also upgraded our seats when we arrived!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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Fegely
There is nothing like the feeling of an old time circus. Circus 1903 was fun and the elephants that were designed for the show were wonderful. Soon no children will know what a real circus is-so take them to this one!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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GwendolynBernea
We had a diverse group, males & females, ages 9, 14, 23, 30, 32, 46, 47 & 69. Everyone LOVED it. We have talked about it for days and told several people already. The performers were so marvelous.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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Jenniferellen
It brought me back to when the circus really was in a tent and I felt the same wonder I did when I was young. The talented cast was amazing and their performances were awe inspiring! A must see for the whole family.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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Verenice
Great show for the whole family. Kids loved it and the presenter had us laughing through out the show. The actors had us on the tips of our chairs with their amazing performances and tricks. We had balcony tickets and got lucky to be upgraded on our seats.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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EclecticChick
High caliber circus acts which brought lots of surprises even to someone who has seen quite a few circuses in her life, including Cirque du Soleil. This was no attempt to be a cirque - they stuck to the core premise, which was what it was like when the circus came to town back in 1903. And they delivered beautifully even though we weren't actually in a big top tent. Loved the Master of Ceremonies, who is also a magician. His work with the children he brought on stage was priceless, capably dealing with the vagaries of unpredictable child behavior. I laughed so hard I was crying. Just a delightful evening!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Fri, Mar 24, 2017
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Anonymous
amazing feats of physical endurance and ingenuity. The puppet elephants were cool, especially the little one. The dislocator/contortionist was weird.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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Anonymous
I loved it! I took my son and he enjoyed it as well. He was called on stage at the begging of the show and that now all he talks about.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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Anonymous
Great talent! Funny ringmaster! We will definitely see this company again next time they come to town!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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Bbllw
The show was engaging! The ringmaster's interaction with children was excellent. Performers had excellent interaction with audience. Elephants were well done
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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BHA5
A very entertaining show for all ages. I would see it again.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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PenrodFam
We bought tickets for Circus 1903, which was playing at the Oriental Theater during the week we were in Chicago. The performances were masterful! It was at times beautiful, inspirational, and hilarious!! Our family particularly enjoyed the juggler, the Flying Finns, and the Italian brothers. The Ring Master made the show for us! It's a must-see!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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NayNay1919
You cannot believe the talent in this show. Awesome display of daredevil talent. Fun for the whole family. The elephant puppets were adorable.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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Misty60
Magical show with such talented acts. Ringmaster was hilarious. Go and take the kids or grandkids!
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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jjpchgo
Nice take on old fashioned circus values. Great ringmaster and nice use of children from the audience.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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WJRobinson
They are able to recreate the thrill of a circus within the confines of a traditional theater. It is a wonderful show for the whole family.
Oriental Theatre Chicago - Chicago, IL - Wed, Mar 22, 2017
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Dakota74
I was admittedly skeptical that this show would hold my interest. But it was actually VERY entertaining. The "glue" of the narrative was the Ring Master, and he was outstanding. Even including some very charming audience participation activities with children from the crowd. The performers were eager, enthusiastic, high energy, and quite professionally accomplished. I did not expect to love it - but I did. Well done to cast and crew!
Oriental Theater - Chicago, IL - 03/23/2017
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Vermonter52
The theatre was filled with energy as we waited for the circus to begin and we were not disappointed. The ringmaster was delightful, his interaction with the children in the audience was spot on. The acts were given the respect they deserved, very talented performers. The elephants were dynamic making it easy to forget they are puppets. Peanut was so playful and a bit naughty just the right mix. My biggest complaint was that the experience ended too soon, there was no big finale and I left wanting more. This show is still in a test/trial phase and I look forward to attending another show after it opens on Broadway. If you love a circus, don't miss this, thecircus in its prime
Oriental Theater - Chicago, IL - 03/23/2017
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miroda
Beautiful theater experience. Love the show and was easy to get to using L
Oriental Theater - Chicago, IL - 03/23/2017
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amt318
This is a show for the entire family no matter what their age. It's like going to an actual circus with amazing circus acts. Everyone was fabulous. The contortionist was great and made me cringe with the way she twisted her body. The ringmaster was fantastic. He pulled 4 kids up on stage and one kid stole the show. It was absolutely hysterical. There were a ton of kids there but because it's packed with entertainment the kids were quiet and mesmerized. This a great show to take young kids to, to introduce them to theater.
Oriental Theater - Chicago, IL - 03/23/2017
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