Portugal family circus coming to Colorado Springs for May

For five generations, the Portugal family has entertained audiences with acrobatic spectacles and amusing stunts.

Starting with a small tent in Mexico during the 1950s, the family-run circus grew over the next few decades, eventually traveling to perform around the country. In 2014, the show went international, starting in El Salvador with a Central America tour. By 2019, the family was planning performances across the U.S.

The Do Portugal Circus family will be flipping and flying here in Colorado Springs. The family-friendly circus, set under a big top, will perform throughout May.

Debutting this Friday, the Portugal family will be flipping and flying here in Colorado Springs. The family friendly circus, set under a big top, will perform throughout the month of May.

Courtesy of Do Portugal Circus

Table of Contents

Toggle

Colorado Springs dance company to present full-length ‘Giselle’ ballet

“We have a whole new show this season — completely new tricks, the lighting is better, the equipment is better,” said ringmaster Aldo Portugal, who also dabbles in trapeze. “We’re always trying to improve. I love this show so dearly. I love being in it. I love being part of it. We are always try to make it better and trying to make it bigger and trying to make it as good as it possibly can be.”

The animal-free circus features acts like juggling, aerial silks, hand balancing, magic, trapeze and the globe of death. There will also, of course, be clowns at the show.

The artists — especially the clowns — are very interactive with the audience, Portugal said, in hopes of immersing viewers into the show. That’s part of what makes the Do Portugal Circus unique, he said.

From exam table to stage: Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald coming to Colorado Springs comedy club

“There’s never a dull moment during the show,” Portugal said. “We just don’t want the audience to come and sit and watch the show. We want the audience to be part of the show. I always say it’s like a dance, it takes two to tango.”

The performances are always evolving, Portugal said. For those who might be going for the first time, Portugal says to expect the unexpected. Even with all his experience, he often finds himself captivated by the artistry.

“I know it sounds so cliche, but the performances that we have are so unique, the performers have such personalities, I’m really proud of this show we have the season,” Portugal said.

“Be ready to be a little scared — the performers, they are fearless.”