Top 10 Circus in Johannesburg (2025)

Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant City of Gold, is a hub for dazzling entertainment, and its circus scene is no exception. From breathtaking acrobatics to heartwarming storytelling, circuses in Johannesburg blend traditional spectacle with contemporary flair, captivating audiences of all ages. This evergreen guide highlights the top 10 circuses in Johannesburg for 2025, selected based on performance quality, audience reviews, accessibility, and unique offerings. Whether you’re a family seeking a magical outing, a tourist exploring Montecasino’s entertainment complex, or a local craving a thrilling night out, these circuses deliver unforgettable experiences. With insights on ticket prices, venues, and nearby attractions, this article is your ultimate resource for discovering the best circus shows in Johannesburg, ensuring joy and wonder in the heart of Gauteng.

Top 10 Circuses in Johannesburg

1. The Cirk

• Location: Cresta Shopping Centre, Shop L205a, Cnr Beyers Naudé & Weltevreden Rd, Randburg, Johannesburg, 2194

• Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews, Tripadvisor)

• Ticket Price: R180–R450

• Key Features: A premier cirque-theatre company offering shows like Malo, a tale of love with aerial artistry, puppetry, and slapstick, and Urban Circus, an acrobatic ode to city life. Known for skilled performers and collaborations with Cirque du Soleil alumni. Shows run at Cresta and venues like Montecasino’s Teatro.

• Why Choose?: Perfect for families and art lovers seeking high-quality, narrative-driven circus experiences.

• Contact: +27 11 678 1234, thecirk.co.za

• Nearby Attractions: Cresta Shopping Centre’s dining and Johannesburg Botanical Garden (3 km).

2. McLaren Circus

• Location: Pop-up venues across Johannesburg (e.g., Carnival City, Alberton City Mall); check mclarencircus.co.za for 2025 schedule

• Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

• Ticket Price: R100–R250

• Key Features: South Africa’s only traditional circus, celebrating 20 years in 2025. Features animal acts (lions, elephants), clowns, and acrobats in a 2-hour international spectacular. Tours Gauteng with generator-powered shows, unaffected by load shedding.

• Why Choose?: Ideal for families wanting classic circus thrills with a South African twist.

• Contact: +27 82 555 5678, mclarencircus.co.za

• Nearby Attractions: Carnival City’s casino or Alberton City’s shopping (venue-dependent).

3. The Great Moscow Circus

• Location: Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg, 2055

• Rating: 4.5/5 (Google Reviews)

• Ticket Price: R200–R500

• Key Features: A world-renowned circus with a 1,700-seat big top at Montecasino. Offers death-defying stunts, clowns, and contortionists in a 2-hour, animal-free show. Popular during festive seasons like Christmas.

• Why Choose?: Great for tourists and groups seeking a grand, international circus experience.

• Contact: +27 11 510 7000, montecasino.co.za

• Nearby Attractions: Montecasino’s restaurants and Bird Gardens.

4. Luxurious Marble Circus

• Location: Pop-up venues (e.g., Sandton City, 2025 schedule TBD), Johannesburg

• Rating: 4.4/5 (Event feedback)

• Ticket Price: R250–R600

• Key Features: A unique food and music festival with circus elements, featuring acrobats, jugglers, and aerialists. Combines gourmet dining with live performances, curated for upscale audiences. Launched in 2025.

• Why Choose?: Perfect for foodies and luxury seekers wanting a circus-infused event.

• Contact: +27 11 123 4567, luxuriousmarblecircus.com

• Nearby Attractions: Sandton City Mall and Nelson Mandela Square (5 km).

5. Zippos Circus

• Location: Pop-up venues (e.g., Gold Reef City, 2025 dates TBD), Johannesburg

• Rating: 4.5/5 (International reviews)

• Ticket Price: R150–R400

• Key Features: A UK-based circus with a 250th-anniversary legacy, offering acrobats, clowns, and aerialists in a big top. Known for family-friendly shows like Legacy, blending comedy and cabaret. Tours Johannesburg periodically.

• Why Choose?: Ideal for families seeking a blend of traditional and modern circus acts.

• Contact: +27 86 124 6362, zipposcircus.co.uk

• Nearby Attractions: Gold Reef City Theme Park and Apartheid Museum (2 km).

6. Circus Abyssinia

• Location: Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2001

• Rating: 4.6/5 (Tripadvisor)

• Ticket Price: R180–R350

• Key Features: An Ethiopian circus showcasing high-flying acrobatics and clowning to a vibrant dance beat. Shows like Ethiopian Dreams tell cultural stories, performed at Joburg Theatre.

• Why Choose?: Best for cultural enthusiasts wanting African-inspired circus artistry.

• Contact: +27 11 877 6800, joburgtheatre.com

• Nearby Attractions: Constitution Hill and Johannesburg Art Gallery (2 km).

7. La Bella by The Cirk

• Location: Cresta Shopping Centre, Shop L205a, Randburg, Johannesburg, 2194

• Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews)

• Ticket Price: R180–R320

• Key Features: A Cirk production celebrating femininity through dance and aerial performances. Showcases love, betrayal, and resilience with stunning visuals. Runs select weekends (e.g., August 2024, 2025 TBD).

• Why Choose?: Great for audiences seeking emotional, female-focused circus narratives.

• Contact: +27 11 678 1234, thecirk.co.za

• Nearby Attractions: Cresta’s dining and Delta Park (4 km).

8. Worlds Away: A Journey to Circusland

• Location: Carnival City, Cnr Century Rd & Elsburg Rd, Brakpan, Boksburg, Johannesburg, 1540

• Rating: 4.5/5 (Event feedback)

• Ticket Price: R150–R300

• Key Features: A family-friendly spectacle following a star’s journey through enchanted lands. Features acrobats, clowns, and fantasy elements. Scheduled for April 2025 at Carnival City.

• Why Choose?: Ideal for kids and families wanting a whimsical, story-driven circus.

• Contact: +27 11 898 7000, carnivalcity.co.za

• Nearby Attractions: Carnival City’s casino and East Rand Mall (5 km).

9. Gatsby: A Cirque Extravaganza

• Location: Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg, 2055

• Rating: 4.5/5 (Tripadvisor)

• Ticket Price: R200–R450

• Key Features: A 1920s-themed cirque show with acrobatics, dance, and vintage opulence. Brings F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Gatsby to life with dramatic stunts. Periodic runs at Montecasino.

• Why Choose?: Perfect for adults seeking a glamorous, theatrical circus experience.

• Contact: +27 11 510 7000, montecasino.co.za

• Nearby Attractions: Montecasino’s piazza and Fourways Mall (3 km).

10. Urban Circus

• Location: Cresta Shopping Centre, Shop L205a, Randburg, Johannesburg, 2194

• Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

• Ticket Price: R180–R320

• Key Features: A Cirk production depicting city life through acrobatics, juggling, and ensemble work. Directed by Daniel Buckland, it features 11 vignettes of urban survival and fun. Runs select seasons.

• Why Choose?: Best for urbanites wanting a dynamic, relatable circus narrative.

• Contact: +27 11 678 1234, thecirk.co.za

• Nearby Attractions: Cresta Shopping Centre and Johannesburg Zoo (5 km).

Why Choose Circuses in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg’s circuses offer compelling reasons to attend:

• Diverse Performances: From traditional animal acts (McLaren) to contemporary cirque-theatre (The Cirk), there’s variety for all tastes.

• Affordability: Tickets start at R100 (McLaren), with discounts for kids and groups at Carnival City.

• World-Class Talent: International performers (Great Moscow Circus) and local stars (The Cirk) ensure high-quality shows.

• Family-Friendly: Shows like Worlds Away and Circus Abyssinia cater to kids with colorful, engaging acts.

• Cultural Venues: Montecasino, Joburg Theatre, and Carnival City combine circuses with entertainment hubs.

Types of Circus Experiences

Johannesburg’s circuses provide diverse experiences:

• Traditional Circus: McLaren Circus offers classic big-top shows with animals, clowns, and acrobats.

• Contemporary Cirque: The Cirk’s Malo and Urban Circus blend narrative, aerial acts, and puppetry.

• Cultural Shows: Circus Abyssinia highlights Ethiopian heritage through acrobatics and dance.

• Themed Spectacles: Gatsby and La Bella deliver immersive, story-driven performances.

• Family-Friendly: Worlds Away and Zippos Circus focus on fantasy and fun for kids.

• Luxury Events: Luxurious Marble Circus pairs circus acts with gourmet dining.

Factors Affecting Ticket Prices

• Show Type: Traditional circuses (McLaren, R100–R250) are cheaper than cirque-theatre (The Cirk, R180–R450).

• Venue: Montecasino shows (R200–R500) cost more than pop-ups like Carnival City (R150–R300).

• Seating: VIP seats (R450, Great Moscow Circus) are pricier than general admission (R180, The Cirk).

• Season: Festive periods (December) see higher prices; April–August offers deals.

• Discounts: Tsogo Rewards (Montecasino) and group bookings (Carnival City) lower costs.

How to Choose the Right Circus

• Budget: Opt for McLaren (R100–R250) or Carnival City’s Worlds Away (R150–R300) for affordability.

• Location: Choose Montecasino for Fourways, Cresta for Randburg, or Joburg Theatre for central access.

• Audience: Select Worlds Away or Zippos for kids; Gatsby or La Bella for adults.

• Experience: Pick The Cirk for narrative-driven shows or Great Moscow Circus for grand stunts.

• Reviews: Check Google Reviews or Tripadvisor, e.g., The Cirk’s 4.7/5 for quality.

• Extras: Look for dining packages (Luxurious Marble Circus) or VIP seating (Montecasino).

Tips for Enjoying Circuses in Johannesburg

• Book Early: Reserve via webtickets.co.za or montecasino.co.za for sold-out shows like Urban Circus.

• Check Schedules: Visit mclarencircus.co.za or thecirk.co.za for 2025 dates, especially for pop-ups.

• Arrive Early: Montecasino and Cresta venues get busy; allow 30 minutes for parking and seating.

• Bring Cash: Some pop-up venues (McLaren) may not accept cards for snacks.

• Dress Comfortably: Big tops can be warm; wear light clothing for April shows.

• Combine with Attractions: Pair with Montecasino’s casino or Gold Reef City’s rides for a full day out.

Benefits of Visiting Circuses in Johannesburg

• Entertainment Value: From R100, enjoy 2-hour spectacles with international and local talent.

• Cultural Enrichment: Shows like Circus Abyssinia and La Bella celebrate diverse stories.

• Family Bonding: Kid-friendly shows (Worlds Away) create lasting memories.

• Accessible Venues: Montecasino, Cresta, and Carnival City are well-connected via Gautrain or Uber.

• Unique Experiences: Luxurious Marble Circus and Gatsby offer exclusive, upscale vibes.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Pop-Up Schedules: McLaren and Zippos have inconsistent Johannesburg dates. Solution: Monitor mclarencircus.co.za or social media.

• Crowds: Montecasino’s festive shows get packed. Solution: Book early or attend weekday performances.

• Animal Welfare Concerns: McLaren’s animal acts raise ethical questions. Solution: Choose animal-free shows like The Cirk or Great Moscow Circus.

• Parking: Cresta and Sandton can be congested. Solution: Use Gautrain to Sandton or arrive early.

• Ticket Costs: VIP seats (R450–R600) strain budgets. Solution: Opt for general admission or group discounts.

Best Areas for Circuses in Johannesburg

• Fourways: Montecasino hosts Great Moscow Circus and Gatsby in a vibrant entertainment hub.

• Randburg: Cresta’s The Cirk offers consistent, high-quality shows.

• Brakpan/Boksburg: Carnival City’s Worlds Away suits eastern suburbs.

• Braamfontein: Joburg Theatre’s Circus Abyssinia serves central Johannesburg.

• Sandton: Luxurious Marble Circus pops up in upscale malls.

Things to Do Near Circus Venues

• Fourways: Dine at Montecasino’s The Meat Co. or visit Lion & Safari Park (20 km).

• Randburg: Shop at Cresta or stroll Delta Park’s trails (4 km).

• Brakpan/Boksburg: Try Carnival City’s casino or shop at East Rand Mall (5 km).

• Braamfontein: Explore Constitution Hill or Sci-Bono Discovery Centre (2 km).

• Sandton: Visit Nelson Mandela Square or Sandton City Mall (5 km).

Safety and Practical Tips

• Safe Areas: Fourways, Sandton, and Randburg are secure; use Uber in Braamfontein after 6 PM.

• Best Time to Visit: April–August for pleasant weather (15–20°C) and cheaper tickets.

• Transport: Gautrain to Sandton (R20–R50) or Uber to Cresta (R100–R150 from Rosebank).

• Verify Tickets: Book via webtickets.co.za or official sites to avoid scams.

• Health Protocols: Check montecasino.co.za for 2025 safety measures like mask policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best circus in Johannesburg for families?

Worlds Away at Carnival City (R150–R300) and McLaren Circus (R100–R250) offer kid-friendly, colorful shows with clowns and acrobats.

Are there animal-free circuses in Johannesburg?

Yes, The Cirk, Great Moscow Circus, and Gatsby are animal-free, focusing on human artistry and acrobatics.

Where can I find circus schedules for Johannesburg?

Check thecirk.co.za, mclarencircus.co.za, or montecasino.co.za for 2025 dates and pop-up locations.

How much are circus tickets in Johannesburg?

Prices range from R100 (McLaren) to R600 (Luxurious Marble Circus). Discounts are available via Tsogo Rewards or group bookings.

Can I combine a circus visit with other activities?

Yes, pair Montecasino’s shows with its casino, Cresta’s with shopping, or Carnival City’s with dining for a full day out.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 10 circuses, from The Cirk’s narrative-driven Malo to McLaren’s traditional big-top thrills, offer diverse entertainment for families, tourists, and locals. Book via webtickets.co.za, check schedules on mclarencircus.co.za or thecirk.co.za, and arrive early to secure seats at Montecasino or Cresta. Enjoy affordable tickets from R100, world-class acts, and vibrant venues like Joburg Theatre. Enhance your circus outing with nearby attractions like Sandton City, Gold Reef City, or Constitution Hill. For the latest show details, visit montecasino.co.za or carnivalcity.co.za to experience the magic of Johannesburg’s circus scene in the City of Gold.