A New York circus is coming to Dover-Foxcroft this summer

DOVER-FOXCROFT — A New York-based circus will return to Maine in June for the first time in more than a decade.

The nationally touring Bindlestiff Family Cirkus will perform at the Piscataquis County Ice Arena in Dover-Foxcroft, its first time in the county. The shows are scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday, June 1, and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 2.

“We’ve sold a few hundred tickets, and people are excited for the chance to see such a great event here in central Maine,” said Patrick Myers, director of Dover-Foxcroft’s Center Theatre, which is producing the event. 

The Bindlestiff Family Cirkus features clowns, jugglers, stilt walkers, magicians and other entertainers. The group has put on shows in a variety of settings, including at festivals and on cruise ships, and it tailors its performances to audiences, according to its website.

Keith Nelson and Stephanie Monseu founded Bindlestiff Family Variety Arts Inc. in 1995. The nonprofit produces original shows, supports emerging artists and provides circus arts education in New York.

Tickets for the June shows range from $16 to $25 depending on where seats are located. The ice arena seats 1,100 people, Myers said. Group discounts are available, according to the theater, which is partnering with sponsor Bissell Brothers to put on the event.

A juggling workshop will also be held June 2. It is open to anyone age 7 and older, and registration is $20. The workshop is limited to 30 participants.

People can also reserve a parking space at the arena for $20.

Tickets can be bought at the Center Theatre at 20 East Main Street in Dover-Foxcroft or by calling 207-564-8943 or visiting the theater’s website at https://www.centertheatre.org/.