ISU’s Gammi Phi Circus Celebrates 90th anniversary

NORMAL – Illinois State’s Gamma Phi Circus will celebrate their 90th anniversary this weekend, with the first performance scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday night. Along with that performance, the circus will also perform on Saturday at 1 p.m. followed by another at 7 p.m.

Gamma Phi performer Natalie Lefkowitz says that ISU is lucky to have such a prestigious program.

“I think it’s something that ISU takes for granted because we are the worlds oldest collegiate circus program,” Lefkowitz explained. “After World War II, almost every collegiate circus shut down their programs.”

Circus members have been practicing for this weekend’s performances since the start of the school year, and it’s finally time to showcase their talents.

Before Lefkowitz steps onto the floor Friday night, the group will have to prepare the stage and make sure that everything is set up perfectly.

“We put the stage together ourselves,” Lefkowitz stated. “As performers it’s something that if we don’t put it together correctly, our lives are at danger.”

The circus’ performances this weekend are expected to pack Redbird Arena as they bring an end to their hardworking season.

Joe Kennedy contributed to this story.