As the Hylton Center prepares to welcome fifth-generation circus performer Gregory Popovich and his adorable furry and feathered rescue friends in February, we鈥檇 like to share some 鈥減awsome鈥 facts about the star behind popular Vegas act, . 聽
Popovich was exposed to the circus at a very early age; learning how to juggle at just six years old. His mother, also a circus performer, included dog and cat acts in her performance, with Popovich as her assistant. His passion for juggling flourished as he grew older, where he鈥檇 perform his first solo act at 14 (juggling while on a free-standing ladder!). And at 17, Popovich joined the Moscow Circus Group, where he received an Award of Excellence from the International Jugglers鈥 Association. His newfound success then landed him a job with the acclaimed Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus in 1990. It was also during this era that he first established the Popovich Comedy Pet Theater in Vegas. This popular Vegas act is his first circus act incorporating rescue animals.
As creator of Popovich Comedy Pet Theater, the circus performer continues to train and work with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, mice, birds and more! Popovich is so passionate about working with animals that he鈥檚 authored multiple 鈥淗ow To鈥 guides for first-time pet owners. Bring the entire family out to witness in action on February 20 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. in Merchant Hall. .
(Podplesky, Azaria. 鈥淲orld-Renowned Juggler Gregory Popovich Brings Troupe of Talented Pets聽to Spokane.鈥 The Spokesman Review, 6 Oct. 2017.)