Zoppé Italian Family Circus

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Zoppé Italian Family Circus

Returning November 1-30, 2025

Matinée and evening performances, plus special holiday showtimes!

Main Library Parking Lot
1044 Middlefield Road, Redwood City- map

The Zoppe Italian Family Circus returns to Redwood City for the 18th year for spectacular two-hour performances that will enthrall the entire family! The Zoppé Family Circus welcomes guests into the intimate 500 seat tent for a one-ring circus that honors the best history of the Old-World Italian tradition. Starring Nino the Clown, the circus is driven by a central story (as opposed to individual acts) that feature acrobatic feats, equestrian showmanship, clowning and plenty of audience participation.

Come discover why this circus remains legendary, with ringmaster Patrick McGuire leading the way. Feel the thunderous beat of hooves as Zoppe brings traditional circus riding to life. Marvel at the agility of the acrobats, and be mesmerized by the daring stunts of the trapeze artists. And of course, don’t miss the ever-amusing antics of Nino the Clown, who guarantees laughter and joy for all.

The Zoppé family shares its exciting life and story with you as you enter into the Big Top. Everyone leaves with a smile, warm heart, and their own story to discover and tell. The Zoppé Italian Family Circus is a once-a-year event not to be missed, so get your tickets early!

About The Zoppé Circus

zoppefamily

The Zoppé Circus has a remarkable and unique story, filled with passion, tradition, and history. Founded 181 years ago, it has become one of the legendary circuses in Europe, with roots tracing back to a love story between a circus performer and a ballerina. Napoleone Zoppè began his career in Budapest, where he met Ermenglida, a ballerina. Together, they founded a circus in Venice, Italy, which still bears their name today.

albertozoppe300x The circus was passed down through generations, with Napoleone’s great-grandson, Alberto Zoppè, inheriting both the circus and a grand equestrian legacy. Alberto toured Europe, forming friendships with famed personalities like Orson Welles. Later, John Ringling North of Ringling Brothers invited Alberto to join the cast of Cecil B. DeMille’s Oscar-winning film, The Greatest Show on Earth. After this, Alberto remained in America, where he and his wife Sandra continued the Zoppè tradition, ushering in a new generation.

Giovanni Zoppè, Alberto’s son, revived the Zoppé Family Circus 21 years ago and has since earned critical acclaim for preserving its traditional European charm. Giovanni, who serves as the circus director, is also Nino the Clown. His performances, filled with heartwarming and hilarious moments, promise an emotional journey for the audience. "You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll feel for the characters. It’s more of an event than a show,” Giovanni says. His dedication to the circus, along with his family’s legacy, has kept this cherished tradition alive.

Julien Zoppe Redwood City holds special significance for the Zoppè family. Fifteen years ago, the circus tent was set up in the Library parking lot, just a few weeks after Giovanni’s son, Julien Veneto Zoppè, was born at Sequoia Hospital. At only six days old, Julien made his debut in the family circus ring. He now returns each year, performing alongside his family, including Giovanni’s second son, Illario. Their grandfather, Alberto, gave his final performance in the same Redwood City parking lot, continuing the family’s long and storied tradition of circus arts.

To learn more about the life of Alberto Zoppe, click here.

Additional Links

Zoppé website

http://www.thedailybeast.com/giovanni-zoppes-real-life-family-circus