The Do Portugal Circus has officially rolled into Boston, offering a welcome escape from papers, deadlines and the general grind of campus life. Affordable, and only an MBTA ride away, the show is a quick reset button for anyone stuck in academic autopilot.
A family-run circus over one hundred years old, Do Portugal blends theater, athleticism and classic spectacle. Performers from across the globe regularly bring high-energy acts to the tent, including aerial stunts, juggling and dance.
Additional performances rotate in and out of the lineup, offering fresh and exciting new acts. Currently, Ethiopia’s Hand Voltage group has joined the Do Portugal team, performing stunning acrobatics and other stunts.
Beyond typical circus performances, specialized acts like the Human Cannonball and Globe of Death – where three motorcyclists race inside a metal sphere – remain a highlight that never fails to shock and delight audiences.
The troupe tours across the U.S. and Latin America, performing in both major cities and small towns. After their annual stop in Boston, they’ll continue up the East Coast before heading west again.
The Voice spoke with Brooke Martin and Riley Biddle, two members of the dance troupe, about their experiences traveling with the circus. According to Biddle, each place they perform feels completely unique. “Every place is so different,” she said. “There really is no day-to-day here.”
Martin added, “It’s all so much fun. The circus is a crazy place to work, but it’s also been the best experience of my life.”
Both performers, who have been with the troupe for under a year, emphasized the close bonds formed within the troupe.
“We come from all over the world, but we’re like family,” Biddle said. “Some of the best parts of this job are the relationships you build.”
Do Portugal Circus’ ringmaster, Jodie Leith, also shared her experiences. After joining the circus as a dancer, she has now spent four years facilitating each and every performance.
According to Leith, one of her favorite aspects of the circus is the wide variety of acts featured throughout the show. As she puts it, each performance entertains audience members in different ways.
“If you want dancers, we’ve got that. If you want clowns, we’ve got that. If you want acrobatics, we’ve got that,” said Leith.
With frequent showtimes, a heated tent and student-friendly ticket prices, the circus is one of Boston’s most accessible entertainment options. It welcomes families and students alike, offering varied concessions and souvenirs, as well as a fun night out.
Do Portugal Circus is performing in Boston through Dec. 7, with specific showtimes and ticket prices available here. The big-top tent is located at 305 William F. McClellan Highway in East Boston.
