Under the Big Top

This afternoon, some friends visiting from home gave us an excuse to take in the Cirque d'Hiver (winter circus). The building itself, built as the Cirque de Napoleon, in honor of Napoleon III in 1852, was worth the price of admission and oh so French -- lots of red velvet, crystal chandeliers, and gilt everything else. The theater seats only about 2,000, giving all attending a close up view of acrobats, jugglers, clowns, aerialists, and animal acts of all descriptions (including one with pigs and goats.) There was live music, a dancing troupe with at least seven costume changes, a lady shot out of a cannon, and the first solo synchronized swimming act I'd ever seen under the big top. With champagne served at intermission, what better way to spend a Saturday afternoon?

Thanks to Rachel for the picture below!