For two days and four shows, Circus Smirkus will present Smirkusology, a science-themed show in their 750-seat big top.

In its 21st season, Circus Smirkus hails from Vermont and will perform in 14 cities throughout New England. This year, 33 teen stars will grace the big top, including one of Saratoga Springs’ own, Taylor Wright-Sanson, a junior at the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs. Other performers will come from as far away as Colorado, Hawaii and Minnesota, as well as international troupers from Colombia, France and Ethiopia.

This year, more children will be able to enjoy the circus with the help of “Magic Matinees” by the Nordlys Foundation. Thanks to a grant from the foundation and donations by area businesses and individuals, “Magic Matinee” will provide more than 100 tickets for the July 8 and 9 shows to area community groups including the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Capital Region, Franklin Community Center and the Salvation Army in Saratoga Springs and Glens Falls so that children and families they serve can attend the shows, said Gina Michelin, Development Director at Waldorf School.

“It is our hope that Magic Matinee will only grow in the coming years to help us extend to as many children as possible the inspirational experience of watching these amazing and talented teens each summer,” she added.

Circus Smirkus started in 1987 by Rob Mermin, who ran away to join the circus himself when he was 19 years old. He moved to Greensboro, VT with the intent of starting the youth circus after serving as director of Clown College with Ringling Brothers Circus. Circus Smirkus carries on the tradition of a European-style circus with a large, colorful big top and performers who entertain crowds with acrobatics, juggling, clowning, contortion and magic.

“These kids work hard to perfect their skills and put on a quality show for other children and adults alike,” Jenn Hunt Dempsey, a Waldorf parent said. “It’s a great event to bring children to so they can see other young people working so hard and engaging the crowd. It’s a great lesson for children to learn about hard work and dedication.”

Performers for Circus Smirkus are selected for not only their skill but also their personality and character. The audition process begins in November, and preparation for the seven week tour began in early June with three weeks of intense practice and rehearsals.

“Having something of this caliber taking place in Saratoga before the track season begins is just another thing to add to Saratoga’s allure,” Michelin said. “I can only imagine how it resonates with the children in the audience. It is even more special having a local student (Wright-Sanson) as part of the show.”

Circus Smirkus will be held at the Saratoga Race Course on Tuesday, July 8 and Wednesday, July 9 at 2 and 7 PM each day. Tickets cost $18.50 for people 13 and older and $15.50 for children 12 and under and children under the age of two sitting on laps will be admitted for free.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Circus Smirkus by calling 1-877-SMIRKUS, or visit www.smirkus.org.