Bakersfield College Performing Arts Department invites you to join the circus for one weekend only with the upcoming play that is filled with joy, despair and laughter “Transfiguration in The Circus” directed by Kimberly Chin.

Audiences are invited to the Edward Simonsen Black Box Theater that is located on Bakersfield College campus on Nov. 21-Nov. 23 to join in on the chaos of the circus.

Tickets will be priced to the public at $8 each and $5 for students and staff. Tickets will be sold on the BC website along with at the door of the Black Box theater.

“Transfiguration in The Circus” from “Belgian Shakespeare” Michel de Ghelderode is an exploration on all things living in an absurd world. It follows the storyline of clowns who not only seek the joy of the audience but seek to understand their own desires and fears. The play raises the real question of who we are when masks are removed?

“I hope they come and have fun, but they also see the social messages that are being made that were made in 1912 that still apply to 2024,” Chin stated.

There are many things to be excited about in this production, not only will it feature silly clowns, and a freak show, there will also be live animal performers along with real aerial skills that will be showcased.

Live animal performers will feature a yellow Burmese python that will work safely with actors to entertain audiences along with two tuxedo cats that are ready to show you their adorable magic.

Rebeca Velez, an actor in the production who will be playing the Ringmaster, expressed her excitement for audiences to see the aerial skills.

“It’s different in what you don’t expect,” Velez stated.

The play will also feature a burlesque dance number which is a theatrical dance style that combines comedy and empowerment with a sensual experience.

Each character has bundles of personality making the play very fun and easy to watch. The clowns provide a silly element while also being laced with suspense and sorrow.

It is highly encouraged for students and staff to come join in on the fun and allow yourself to be transported into the circus.