The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) is thrilled to present the Stargazer Circus General Admission Family Performances, running Friday, July 24 through Sunday, July 26, with two shows each day under the big top at Tom Nevers Field. Tickets go on sale starting at 9am on Monday, June 1.
Step into a world of wonder as the MMA welcomes Venardos Circus, a Broadway-style production featuring world-class acrobats, aerialists, and jugglers. Each 90-minute performance, including a 15-minute intermission, offers a thrilling mix of humor, heart, and breathtaking spectacle. Concessions will be available, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. Each performance is a celebration of exploration, enchantment, and the joy of discovery brought vividly to life on stage.
Audiences of all ages will be swept up in the thrill of the circus, sparking imagination and celebrating wonder, adventure, and fun—all inspired by the fearless spirit of discovery that defined Maria Mitchell, America’s first professional female astronomer.
Tickets go live Monday, June 1 — families and patrons are encouraged to buy tickets early to ensure availability for these highly anticipated performances.
Dates and Times:
o Friday, July 24: 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Saturday, July 25: 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
o Sunday, July 26: 11:00 AM & 4:00 PM
• Location: Under the Big Top at Tom Nevers Field, 130 Tom Nevers Road
• Ticket Cost: $45 (youth, ages 6 – 12), $95 (adults)
• Tickets Available starting at 9am on Monday, June 1
All proceeds from the Stargazer Circus and Stargazer Gala support the MMA’s Internship Program, advancing its mission to inspire a lifelong passion for science through education, research, and hands-on exploration of Nantucket’s sky, land, and sea. Each year, the MMA serves more than 20,000 learners, helping to cultivate the next generation of scientists and environmental stewards.
“We set out to create something that was not just a single evening, but an experience for the entire community,” said Joanna Roche, Executive Director of the Maria Mitchell Association. “Our Gala Committee worked for months to imagine an event that reflects the energy and spirit of the MMA while also expanding access and impact. The Stargazer Circus represents that vision—bringing people together in a joyful, inspiring way and inviting children and adults alike to dream, explore, and be amazed.”
Venardos Circus, “a circus like no other,” founded by former Ringling Bros. ringmaster, Kevin Venardos, is a circus reimagined with theatrical experiences that celebrate artistry, storytelling, and human connection. Their world-class performers of acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, and comedians from around the globe bring their unique talents to the stage. Designed for all ages, Venardos Circus creates magical moments that bring the community together.
The Maria Mitchell Association is a private non-profit organization. Founded in 1902, the MMA works to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages.