Haunted Circus Takes Over 100-Year-Old Former Church With Two Shows — One Family-Friendly and One Adults-Only
Get ready for a frightful fusion of circus and cinema as Philadelphia School of Circus Arts (PSCA) transforms its historic 100-year-old West Mt. Airy campus into a haunted big top for the Haunted Circus Weekend: Scary Movie Edition on Saturday, November 1.. Hosted inside the 26,000-square-foot former church at 6452 Greene Street, this annual Halloween tradition will feature two spine-tingling shows: one for families and one for adults only.
This year’s theme, Scary Movies, celebrates horror classics and cult favorites through breathtaking circus artistry. Expect aerial homages to iconic scream queens, juggling maniacs, and acrobatic nods to the most haunting moments in cinematic history. PSCA’s students and faculty will reimagine legendary horror films through their signature mix of daring performance, theatrical storytelling, and physical artistry.
“Theatricality and storytelling have always been at the core of what we do,” said Kitsie O’Neill, Executive Director of PSCA. “This year, we’re diving into one of our favorite Halloween traditions — scary movies — and reimagining them through circus. Our Family Show gives a playful nod to classics like It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and Hocus Pocus, while the Adult Show pulls inspiration from cult favorites like Psycho, Black Swan, and The Shining. There are even a few surprise twists in store.”
The Family Haunted Circus offers a lighthearted take on Halloween with spooky-but-not-scary fun for all ages. Featuring PSCA’s Youth Troupe, Performance Prep students, and adult faculty, the show combines aerial feats, juggling, acrobatics, and whimsical storytelling.
Guests can expect characters to leap “off the screen and into the rafters” in a production that blends classic Halloween charm with circus flair. Costumes are encouraged, making this the perfect family-friendly night out.
