For the first time in Canada, Europa Super Circus is bringing its show to town — and giving the Royal Canadian International Circus a little competition.

Having already made stops on Vancouver Island last month, the production featuring predominantly European artists is currently touring the B.C. Mainland and made a stop this past weekend in Surrey at Elements Casino grounds. All the festivities take place under a travelling big top installed in the parking lot.

Upon entering the venue, what immediately stands out is the intimate setting. The stage is constructed right in the centre, with chairs set up all around. All the seats have a good view of the action, compared to some other similar attractions I’ve seen over the years where those sitting higher up in bleachers might not feel as connected to the performances. A limited amount of VIP seats located right up against the perimeter of the ring are also available.

Speaking of the performers, there were a number of standouts throughout the afternoon. Attendees are initially introduced to Angelo Chaves, known as the Clown Prince of Portugal, who serves as the comedic relief and keeps people entertained during set changes by doing a little magic and enlisting help from younger audience members.

Both kids and adults alike were in awe of an early treat to kick things off: José Armando Ponce Ramos showed off some death-defying moves on the aptly named dual-rotating Wheel of Death. Fun fact, a fourth-generation artist, Ramos holds the Guiness World Record for most blindfolded turns on the apparatus.

Other highlights included French tight-wire specialist Geoffrey Berhault dancing, jumping and flipping along a 10-millimetre cable, and Portuguese hand balancer and Aerialist Cardinali Chaves first dazzling high up on aerial silks before later descending down to a pair of handstand canes and balancing in a variety of upside-down poses. Guests were even treated to a multiple-sword-swallowing display and a trio of daredevil freestyle motorcross riders jumping and flipping high overhead.

The event lasts for about 90 minutes with a short 15-minute intermission in-between. The next stop on the tour is in Abbotsford (May 8 to 11) and then Chilliwack (May 15 to 18). Tickets start at $35 for adults and $25 for children age three to 12. Visit supercircus.com for more information.