Circus Shows

Cape Cod's home for circus under the Big Top!

Circus Shows

Payomet Cirque by the Sea brings the joy and power of circus to Cape Cod with amazing professional circus programming for all ages.

Each summer Payomet’s Cirque by the Sea brings circus arts and imagination to life with an incredibly fun and clever circus-theater show! Entertaining the entire family, our professional circus artists write and produce an original show with socially conscious themes the entire family will enjoy. From gender equality to climate change, ocean health to backyard pollinators, our themes invite kids and adults alike to think and consider the world around them. The results are performances that are as meaningful as they are mesmerizing, and fun for the whole family!

Showing until September 6, 2026!

Summer in the City:
The Circus that Never Sleeps

In a city of millions it’s every man, woman and rat out for themselves. Take a break from your relaxing beach vacation and get caught up in the hustle and bustle of this colorful, fast-paced circus theater show celebrating the big city and all of its inhabitants. Featuring an ensemble cast of professional circus artists, including acrobats, aerialists and jugglers, this funny and heartfelt tale is bursting with big city energy. Thinking of missing it? Fuhgeddaboudit!

Back in the Saddle – Burlesque!

This ain’t just a western, it’s a burlesque, and by the end of it, honey, we’re all going to be Back in the Saddle. Expect whip cracks, gun spins, lasso tricks, and just enough clothes to call it art, all wrapped around a tale of love, lawlessness, and hot, sweaty labor. This adults-only show (18+) tours this August and September, with performances at the Payomet Tent at Highland Center in North Truro and Provincetown Town Hall.

We want to amaze and inspire you!

Family fun for everyone!

Our mission is to combine Impressive physical feats with delicate storytelling that is transcendent and socially relevant to all ages.

Watch Behind-the-Scenes of Our Original Circus Production

The best way to understand what makes a Payomet Cirque by the Sea show special is to see the story behind it.

Our documentary takes you behind the curtain and into the heart of the production process — the artists, the craft, and everything that happens before the lights go up. Follow the creative journey from the very first rehearsal all the way to opening night.

Bring the Big Top to Your Community

The tent may live on Cape Cod, but the shows can go anywhere. Payomet Cirque by the Sea productions are tour-ready and we are actively looking for venues to bring the magic to new audiences. School gyms, public libraries, performing arts centers — if you have a space and a community ready to be wowed, we want to hear from you. Email Circus@payomet.org.