The 2010 Rizpah Shrine Circus has brought performing animals, stunts and family fun to Bowling Green, and continues with two shows today.
Featuring performers from 15 countries, the Shrine Circus is in Bowling Green for the first time in 15 years. With elephants, tigers, acrobats and contortionists, the organizers of the event aim to delight and entertain children and adults.
“We like to put on a good show,” said Larry Carden, the circus’ head elephant trainer for nearly 16 years. “It’s all about family-oriented entertainment.”
The Rizpah Shrine Circus continues today at Western Kentucky University’s L.D. Brown Agricultural Exposition Center. The show costs $16 for adults and $12 for children, though families of four are offered a special discount of $32.
Shows begin at 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., and families are encouraged to come early to meet the stars and ride the animals.
Before and after the performances, audience members are invited into the circus rings to ride elephants and ponies, meet the performers and take photographs with a 9-foot-long python.
“It’s important to get the crowd involved,” Carden said. “We’re offering an interactive experience where everyone can take part in the fun.”
Proceeds from the circus go to the Warren County Shriner’s Club to promote civic service. The club bought tickets and sent them to local elementary schools, as well as the Potter Children’s Home.
“This circus is just one of our fundraisers,” explained Bruce Wiggins, chairman of the Warren County Shriner’s Club. “From here, the money goes to our temple and then to one of our 22 children’s hospitals.”

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