From juggling as children on the streets of their hometown to embarking on sensational world tours, the Circus Abyssinia founders have an epic tale worth telling.
JUL 10–AUG 3, 2025
Principal Production Sponsor
JUL 10–AUG 3, 2025
Co-Created & produced by Mehari “Bibi” Tesfamariam
Co-Created & directed by Binyam “Bichu” Shimellis
Written by Cal McCrystal
Choreography by Kate Smyth
The Jentes Family Courtyard Theater
Circus Abyssinia: Ethiopian Dreams
Co-Created & produced by Mehari “Bibi” Tesfamariam
Co-Created & directed by Binyam “Bichu” Shimellis
Written by Cal McCrystal
Choreography by Kate Smyth
The Jentes Family Courtyard Theater
Run Time: 70 minutes (including intermission)
Artists subject to change
Suitable for all audiences of all ages
“Soaring acrobatics, an abundance of talent… a joyous 80 minutes of Circus”
“★★★★ A delightful evening of entertainment”
The world-famous Circus Abyssinia comes to Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier this summer for a limited engagement! You’ll be astounded by heart-stopping acrobatics, stunning feats of juggling, high-flying hilarity, and death-defying tricks—all set to the irresistible beats of Ethiopian music. Inspired by the story of its creators, brothers Mehari “Bibi” Tesfamariam and Binyam “Bichu” Shimellis, the tale follows Little Bibi and Little Bichu who dream of joining the circus. Throughout their journey, they are joined by a host of circus dreamers whose acts of acrobatic daring call up a world of rushing adventure that awakens the possibility of the first Ethiopian circus made by and for Ethiopian artists. This soaring spectacle is the perfect, unforgettable outing for audiences young and old alike.
August 2025
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Tickets Available
Limited Availability
Multiple Performances
Sold Out
Run Time: 70 minutes (including intermission)
Artists subject to change
Suitable for all audiences of all ages
August 2025
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Tickets Available
Limited Availability
Multiple Performances
Sold Out
“A performance that transcends the limits of the human body, carrying the celebration of joy at its forefront.”
“Mesmerizing”
“Dazzling”
“Some of the most talented jugglers, tumblers, and contortionists you’re likely to ever see…a journey worth taking”
Artists
Mehari “Bibi” Tesfamariam
Co-Creator and Producer
Binyam “Bichu” Shimellis
Co-Creator, Director, and Producer
Dawit Berehe Aregawi
Performer
Spotlight
Meet Co-Creators Bibi and Bichu
A Note from the Director
“This is the first Ethiopian circus created by and for Ethiopian artists, and my hope is [it] will help create a space in the world for many more,” shares Bichu.
The Music of Circus Abyssinia
Listen to the show’s catchy soundtrack drawn from some of the top artists performing in Ethiopia today—and explore the meaning behind the music.
Principal Production Sponsor
