Lewis & Clark Circus is bringing a taste of the Big Top to Portal this week, with daredevils, exotic animals and familyoriented fun, said Portal Heritage Society President Timothy Cook.

The group is hosting the two-day event as a fund raiser. The circus was a popular attraction in years past, he said.

There will be three shows: Wednesday, March 15, at 7:30 p.m. and Thursday, March 16, at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets for adults are $10 in advance and $15 on the day of show, and with each adult ticket sold, two children will be admitted free, he said.

Tickets are available at Lanier's IGA, Pepperjacks Deli and Grill and Portal City Hall. They may also be purchased online at www.lccircus.com.

The show will feature aerialists, the Globe of Death, exotic animals, and pony and camel rides.

The event will be held at the E.C. Carter Turpentine Still site at 217 Turpentine Drive in Portal.

Lewis & Clark Circus was founded in 2006 and is based in Greenville, South Carolina. It is a "one ring European-style circus under the Big Top featuring continuous action in the center ring," according to the website. "Families attending the show can expect to see high-flying trapeze artists, high wire artists, amazing acrobats, juggling, clowns, plus much more."

Cook encouraged not only Portal area residents but those from surrounding areas to attend a show during the two-day event.