The two-year-old circus has no animals or clowns. Instead, it’s a story-driven show with a Renaissance-theme featuring high-flying aerial acts, juggling, acrobatics, and comedy.

“My brother was really into Renaissance stuff. I though it would be fun thing,” said Ben Holland, who helped develop the show and serves as a performer and booking coordinator.

For the show, they replace traditional animal and clown acts with immersive storytelling in which each member of the show has a role. Audiences will follow a brave knight and his sidekick as they attempt to reclaim the kingdom from a mischievous witch and her dragon.

The show blends modern circus performance with the charm of medieval fantasy, creating a lively experience for all ages. Fourteen performers help bring the show to life.

Jenna “Skyttle” Pasechnick performs as the witch in the Kingdom of Wonders Medieval Circus, which will have four shows this weekend at Lodal Park in Kingsford. (Courtesy photo)

“We put a medieval spin on it with the queen, princess, witch and dragon. It gives the young audience something to enjoy,” Holland said. “All the acts are tied into the story, which gives children an extra reason to enjoy them. The story puts it all together.”

The show is on its first tour of the Upper Peninsula. They’ve had shows in Houghton, Sault Ste. Marie, St. Ignace and Escanaba. After they finish their tour of the Upper Peninsula they will travel through Wisconsin, he said.

“I think it’s really beautiful. I love all the lighthouses. I’ve never seen so many lighthouses in my life,” Holland said of the U.P. He is from Washington D.C.

Each show is about one hour and 40 minutes long, with a 15-minute intermission. Tickets are free but should be ordered in advance online so they can ensure enough seats are available. The show is performed under a 125-by-125-foot tent and has a seating capacity for 400.

Tickets are available on their Facebook page or website. They will have popcorn, soda and other treats available for purchase before and during the show. Doors open 30 minutes in advance.

The show has earned praise across Michigan for its colorful characters, high-energy stunts and family-centered atmosphere.

Holland, who has been involved in several circuses throughout the years, says there’s no other show like it.

“It will be a wonderful event. People are going to have a phenomenal time,” he said.

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Marguerite Lanthier can be reached at 906-774-3500, ext. 85242, or mlanthier@ironmountaindailynews.com.