Raising the big top

BROOKSVILLE – On Thursday afternoon, the Hernando County Fairgrounds didn’t look ready for a show just hours away. Rain turned the area intended for the stage into a squishy mud pit, and the crew was waiting as long as possible for the ground to dry out.

But no one was in a panic. White tigers napped in their cages, rolling on their backs and stretching our their limbs and paws. The three elephants ate straw, and vendors inflated balloons and prepared their displays from the show.

The Loomis Brothers Circus, now in its 16th season, is based in Bushnell. Ringmaster Justin Loomis comes from a circus family, and said the show picks up new talent every year, and usually travels across the U.S. from February through Thanksgiving.

Spectators can expect acrobats on trampolines, aerialists and clowns, as well as white tigers, elephants and performing Dobermans.

Shows are planned for 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Loomis said tickets are $15 for adults, and up to two children get in for free with an adult ticket with a coupon available at local retailers. Tickets are available at the box office (cash only) or online at http://loomiscircus.com. A portion of proceed the Florida International Teaching Zoo. [email protected]

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