The Florida State University Flying High Circus, which will be celebrating its 78th anniversary this fall, has a rich, unique, and remarkable history dating back to 1947, the same year FSU was founded. To this day it remains a beloved and cherished symbol on campus and a significant part of FSU’s history and tradition.
What grew from a small show in an old gymnasium to a nationally recognized institution, the Flying High Circus, located on the FSU campus, is the only tented collegiate circus in the world, and its performances rival those of any of the professional circuses remaining today.
Just over one year ago, on May 10, 2024, the FSU Flying High Circus was destroyed after tornadoes touched down in their home area of campus, the Jack Haskin Circus Complex. The damage included the total destruction of the Big Top tent, a prominent, iconic, and treasured campus symbol. Other damage included damage to the steel structures, the concrete foundation, the audience seating, and shredding the remaining tent fabric…