The journey of Anthony Hall, from West Midlands, is a testament to resilience, sacrifice, and the transformative power of a dream
After trading the vibrant stages of the UK entertainment industry for the quiet dedication of full-time caregiving, Anthony is Coming to Melton Mowbray, bringing with him Calipso's Circus.
It's a story that began far from the spotlight, working with giraffes at Dudley Zoo, before Anthony’s adventurous spirit led him to the heart of the circus world.
"The roar of the audience is like food to me," Anthony says. "You really need to feel it to understand it."
A Life Under the Big Top
Anthony’s career path was anything but conventional. After leaving school in 1998, he pursued a childhood dream after falling in love with the circus after visiting Blackpool Tower Circus as a young child, joining one of the biggest names in the traveling circus industry. He managed a vast array of animals, including an elephant and 22 equines, honing his skills during the nine-month tours. He then then went on to managing a traveling circus touring all over England, Scotland and Wales.
His talent for show management led him into the glittering world of pantomime. During winter months, Anthony worked alongside British entertainment giants like Paul O'Grady, Bernie Nolan, Gok Wan, Brian Conley, and Bradley Walsh.
He experienced the highs of the industry, recalling time spent drinking with Bernie Nolan and sharing stories with Gok Wan in his dressing room.
A Sacrifice That Sparked a Vision
In 2019, Anthony’s soaring career came to a sudden halt when his father suffered a debilitating stroke. Faced with a choice, Anthony made a powerful decision: he gave up his dreams to become a full-time carer for his parents.
"I decided to give up my dreams to be there for both my parents," he explained.
This selfless act, however, didn't extinguish his passion for entertainment. In 2022, Anthony attended a local ladies’ night and saw a show that felt outdated. He had a vision: to create something entirely new.
"The Ultimate Ladies Night Show" was born—a high-octane production combining death-defying circus acts, live vocals, comedy, and male entertainers in a dazzling, Vegas-style spectacle.
Anthony poured himself into the venture, battling his own depression by focusing on the show. He says the immense challenges of touring and managing the largest show of its kind have been worth it.
"Putting a smile on those audience members' faces puts a smile on my face," Anthony shares, emphasizing how the joy he brings to others helps lift his own spirits.
Anthony’s inspiring journey—from working with exotic animals and managing circuses to making the difficult choice to care for his family—culminates in this remarkable return.
The Ultimate Ladies Night Show is currently touring up and down the country!!
But Anthonys real love is within the circus for many years he's kept in touch with many circus families and he actually refers them as his second family the Big news is finally out!!!
Anthony’s dream as finally come true!!
Anthony as put together his very own touring Circus called CALIPSO'S CIRCUS that will be touring up and down the country visiting small venues like working mens clubs, social clubs, village halls and to larger theatre's! Delivering entertainment for all the family something for everyone Anthony added that you can be 5 or 95 you will all enjoy our shows and although our circus is not in the traditional circus big top we will still be delivering that traditional magic of the traditional circus!!
The aim of this circus is based on allowing people to follow their dreams and don't hold back don't let anything or anyone stop you!
The show will feature a cast of international performers from all over the world including Matt Bradley our Ringmaster keeping the show running smoothly and delivering some amazing vocals throughout, Vladislav from Ukraine with his hand balancing, international circus star Albert with his unique free style balancing skills, all the way from America’s Got Talent Duo Teplitski who's a 2 time GUINNESS World Record holder as a strong man, plus Dani from Ethiopia working high in the roof of the venues with his rola Bola act, The elegance of Hoola HOOP from Cala and our comedy cartoon Kangaroo! Not to forget our popular circus clown who will have all of you curling up with laughter!
Anthony added that the idea of having my own circus as come from a childhood dream and im not hear to tred on any of the traditional big circus names toes and hopefully they will give me the backing and support ive given them for many many years I hope we can continue to support each other and keeping tradition and heritage, a British invention going strong!!
Our aim is to deliver top quality entertainment at affordable prices and bringing our show to local communities around the uk and make sure that families can still have the access to entertainment!!
Our Show is coming to The Stockyard - Melton Mowbray on Saturday 27th June tickets are from only £8.00 with under the age of 2 are free!!
Doors will open at 3pm with the show starting at 4pm
We are also reaching out to schools and groups in the Melton Mowbray area hoping they can share the news of our visit to make sure our little ones can come and enjoy just over a hours entertainment and hopefully we can show them that dreams can come true!!
It is highly advisable to book as soon as possible because we have only been promoting the show for a few weeks and tickets are flying out!!
Book online now
www.ticketsource.com/calipsos-circus
Book your tickets now and "feel the excitement" of Anthony’s spectacular return.