Experience the Magic of the Circus in Columbia, S.C.
Columbia, S.C. is buzzing with excitement as the highly anticipated South Carolina State Fair returns for its sixth season, bringing along the thrill and wonder of the Untied Circus. This year’s theme promises an enchanting experience reminiscent of simpler times, filled with laughter and amazement.
An Enthusiastic Welcome
Under the bright lights and colorful tents, the atmosphere is electric as the ringmaster and producer, Ian Garden, warmly welcomes fair-goers. “It’s wonderful and it’s great, and it’s what it’s all about,” he shares with a contagious smile. “We love to see the laughs, and the look on people’s faces at each and every show.” Attendees are captured not only by the talents on display but by the magic of the entire circus experience.
A World of Talent
This year, the circus showcases an amazing array of talent from all around the globe. One of its most thrilling acts revolves around a human cannonball from Indiana, Brian Miser, who adds excitement and a heart-pounding twist to the show. Brian takes a moment to share his journey: “I had a trampoline as a kid, I got on that and I was a natural acrobat. After graduating high school, I went professional and learned flying trapeze. I did that for 16 years and decided to build a cannon and pursue that.” His stunning act has left audiences on the edge of their seats and their eyes wide with amazement.
A Family Affair
But wait, there’s more! Brian isn’t the only member of his family captivating the crowd with their aerial feats. His wife, Tina Miser, and their daughter, Skyler, also participate in the cannon act, making it truly a family affair. Tina lovingly reminisces about their unique bond, saying, “His pickup line for me was, hey, I’m building this cannon, do you want to shoot me out of it? So, that is not an offer a girl can turn down.” Talk about a thrilling romance story!
Skyler, the second generation of human cannonball, proudly boasts her experience, “She’s got about 700 shots under her belt right now.” While Brian has launched himself over 8,000 times, both parents say the exhilarating experience never gets old. “From that countdown, from 5, your heart is just racing,” Brian explains. “We still have that anticipation and that rush of adrenaline that starts to happen before we even climb in that barrel.”
Flying Through the Air
The feeling of shooting through the air is second to none. “That feeling of complete weightlessness like you’re soaring through the air like a bird and it’s like no other feeling,” says Tina, reflecting on the sensation of freedom that comes from their daring act. It’s easy to see how feats like these create lifelong memories for both performers and audiences alike.
A Place to Escape
As the ringmaster, Ian Garden, expresses his hopes for the future, he shares an essential sentiment about the circus. He emphasizes, “This is a place where people can go and escape reality, and the day-to-day problems. They can come in here for an hour and just forget about everything and enjoy the heck out of themselves.” It’s this spirit of joy and escapism that defines the Untied Circus and the South Carolina State Fair.
With thrill-seekers and families flocking to Columbia to immerse themselves in this amazing celebration of talent and joy, the circus promises to be one of the unforgettable highlights of the fair. So, grab your friends and family, and prepare to be amazed by the spectacle that is the Untied Circus!
