BRATTLEBORO — On March 3 and 4, the Latchis Theatre will transform into a circus show, with high flying trapeze, aerial silks, partner balancing, juggling, comedy, and more.
The annual Circus Spectacular: A Hot Show on a Cold Weekend is a fundraiser for the New England Center for Circus Arts. It features the professional performers of the internationally known school, alongside special guests from Cirque du Soleil, Ringling Bros., America's Got Talent, and more.
The main stage performance includes acts that differ from last year's show, including Zoe Klein and Dave Paris. The acrobatic dance duet trained at NECCA and soon found themselves as Top 20 finalists in America's Got Talent, as well as award winners at international salsa competitions.
Rachel Stewart, an aerialist from Boston who graduated from NECCA's professional training program, will perform an aerial lyra act that garnered her a top award at the Colorado Circus Festival in 2011.
This year's emcee will be Jesse Dryden, who has appeared with Cirque du Soleil, toured with Cirque Mechanics, and is director of shows at Circus Smirkus.
All proceeds will benefit NECCA's outreach programs, which provide non-competitive, team-building, physical and creative experiences for many. Funds raised go directly to winter sports programs for area schools, experiences for developmentally challenged students, a free juggling club at the Brattleboro Boys and Girls Club, foster families through the Northeastern Family Institute, and other recipients.
Additional scholarships are provided to at least 25 percent of NECCA's 1,000 students, who range in age from 18 months to 80.
Prices range from $10 to a $60 VIP ticket, which includes pre-show hors d'oeuvres, cocktails, unique performances at the Brattleboro Museum & Arts Center, and reserved seating at the Latchis performance.
A silent auction will offer such items as a week stay at a vacation home in Utah, a private house performance by Cirque du Soleil artists, restaurant and services gift certificates, and more.
Tickets are available at www.necenterforcircusarts.org, or by calling 802-254-9780.