5th generation circus performer makes his way to Abilene

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – A family-run circus will perform in Abilene for two weekends. The Do Portugal Circus features something for everyone, from motorcycles to acrobatics to high-wire performances.

Performers practice for hours daily to put on a show they say will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. They do this to make families smile and keep them entertained.

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The story of Do Portugal Circus dates back to 1911 when members of the Portugal family from Mexico began to perform at a circus. Years later, they decided to create their performance to captivate audiences. Now, Aldo Portugal is stepping up as a fifth-generation performer, ready to continue his family’s legacy.

“The experiences that we have had performing all over Latin America, all over central and north America. It’s a role I’m very grateful for, as well as the life that we have now. Our way to give it back is to give a great show. I have been doing it since I was 8 years of age. I have been on it my whole life. It is something that I love and am very passionate about,” explained Portugal.

With every flip or trick, the performers use skills learned from past generations and bring them to the present. Aldo credited the performers for their success. The circus’s goal is to stay family-run and create a family within.

“Maybe here in the USA, you guys have this misconception of maybe the bearded lady and, you know, those kind of old antiques shows. These performers, the quality, and the passion they give with every performance put their lives literally on the line in every show,” added Portugal.

The Do Portugal Circus will be in Abilene from February 14 until February 23. You can purchase tickets online or in person up to 30 minutes before the show starts. The circus is in the Abilene Mall parking lot, close to Ulta Beauty.