Venardos Circus performing under the big top during the Maria Mitchell Association Stargazer Circus on Nantucket
Nantucket Events

Seven Events to Inspire and Delight

Step into the magic of a Broadway-style circus filled with wonder, imagination, and delight on July 23, when the Maria Mitchell Association brings A Night at the Circus to their annual Stargazer Gala, followed by six family friendly performances.

Inspired by the fearless spirit of curiosity and discovery that defined Maria Mitchell—America’s first professional female astronomer—this extraordinary evening brings the joy of exploration to life through breathtaking performances, lively celebration, and unforgettable enchantment.

This year for their gala, the MMA welcomes Venardos Circus, a dazzling Broadway-style production, under an intimate big-top tent. Their world-class acrobats, breathtaking aerialists, and dazzling jugglers treat audiences to moments of humor, heart, and spectacle in a show-stopping performance.

Guests at the July 23 Gala will enjoy “Big Top” bites and curated concessions by Island Kitchen, along with “Celestial Cocktails” crafted for the occasion. A roaming magician, fortune tellers, and a whimsical wishing tree add to the mystique of the evening. Following the Venardos performance, the celebration continues with live music by the Hess Twins, as guests dance, mingle, and revel in the thrill of something truly magical.

At press time, tickets to the Stargazer Gala A Night at the Circus were still available at MariaMitchell.org.

On July 24, 25, and 26, MMA will host the Stargazer Circus, presenting six family-friendly general admission performances. Founded by former Ringling Bros. ringmaster Kevin Venardos, this circus reimagines the traditional American circus as a theatrical experience that celebrates artistry, storytelling, and human connection.

A memorable event for the entire family, ticketholders will experience the wonder of the circus under an intimate Big Top tent, where worldclass acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, and comedians from around the globe deliver an unforgettable performance for audiences of all ages.

Afternoon performances begin at 3pm; evening performances start at 7 pm. Each of the six performances is approximately 90 minutes long, including a 15-minute intermission. Concessions will be available. Tickets are $95 for adults; $45 for youths; and $125 for stage-side seating at mariamitchell.org.

Be part of the excitement as the Maria Mitchell Association launches this extraordinary new tradition—an evening designed to inspire, delight, and support the future of science, education, and discovery on Nantucket.

Articles by Date from 2012