We recently brought our students to the Garden Bros Nuclear Circus at the Poughkeepsie Galleria, and it was an unforgettable evening of wonder and joy. From the moment we entered the Big Top Arena, the energy was palpable. This immersive 100-minute spectacle featured more than 60 world-class performers from over 20 countries, delivering breathtaking acts such as the Human Cannonball and Jr.’s Hollywood Adventure, a dazzling virtual reality clown journey that transported everyone into the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s greatest hit movies.
The pre-show experience was a festival in itself: giant inflatable slides, bounce-houses, face painting, pony rides, and the high-energy Splat Warz Arena were all available for our students to enjoy. Delicious fair foods such as cotton candy, funnel cakes, and popcorn added to the carnival atmosphere. Several of our students were particularly thrilled by the chance to see performers up close—a memory they won’t soon forget.
Once inside, we were captivated by the grandeur of the performance. The show’s choreography, lighting, and live aerial stunts combined with explosive moments—such as the human cannonball and motorcycle sphere—all unfolded under the world’s largest Big Top Arena. The combination of music, dynamic visuals, and precision timing held everyone’s attention and sparked excitement across our group. The spirit of unity and joy was evident as our students cheered and gasped in unison, fully engaged throughout the show’s entire run.
This excursion provided our students with more than entertainment—it offered sensory-rich engagement, social connection, and an opportunity to experience live, multi-sensory performance in a supportive environment. We observed increased engagement and enthusiasm among students as they navigated the pre-show attractions and collectively responded to the live acts. Such outings reinforce our commitment to inclusive, immersive experiential learning beyond the classroom.
