At the center of it all is the Zoppé family.
The Ventura County Fairgrounds is set to be transformed into a spectacle of wonder and awe as Zoppé: An Italian Family Circus brings Carnevale di Venezia to life from December 15-January 1, 2024. The entire family will travel on an exquisite journey through time, delving deep into intrigue, extravagance and celebration of life and art that is the essence of Venetian Carnevale. Co-produced by Luca Colferi, esteemed director of Campagnie de Calza—one of the world’s oldest theater companies hailing from Venice—this show promises an unparalleled experience of wonder, artistry and family-friendly entertainment.
Zoppé Family Circus brings the spirit of Venice to life with meticulously crafted costumes and masks handmade in the heart of the city. Traditional Venetian music sets the stage for a 500-year-old commedia preshow that takes place in front of the Big Top, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of this historic carnival. At the conclusion of the commedia preshow, guests are immersed in Carnevale as they walk across a bridge and through the Zoppe passport office, getting their Zoppe passport stamped for Venice.
Performances large and small captivate audiences with incredible human talent. The Zoppé Acrobatic Troupe performs on the Chinese Poles, a staggering demonstration of strength and balance where acrobats climb and jump between tall poles. Canine capers bring humor, jugglers display dexterity and timing, and two majestic horses thunder around the ring, ultimately joining the dogs for a unique horse and dog act. Performers hail from around the world, including a dynamic acrobatic limbo and dance act from Kenya and a touching father-daughter act from Mexico.
At the center of it all is the Zoppé family, with Giovanni Zoppé performing with his son and a special audience member, and his daughters wowing audiences with their aerial lyra artistry. The evening culminates in a dance procession to old world music that brings a feeling of nostalgia for simpler times. Representing 7 generations of circus artists, the Zoppé family invites you into their Big Top home to experience the true meaning of circus–family, support and community.
While in Ventura, the Zoppe Family Circus will host two special events: Circus Camp and a New Year’s Eve Under the Big Top. Circus Camp teaches the circus arts to children right in the ring, and more importantly teaches the art of self confidence. Camp takes place December 26-29 for children from 7-15 years old and culminates in a family show the final hour of camp.
New Year’s Eve Under the Big Top is the perfect family tradition with the entertaining Carnevale di Venezia performance plus party favors and a countdown to a balloon drop at the finale of the show. The whole family can ring in the New Year together early!
