After a selfless hiatus to care for his family, the Wolverhampton native is fulfilling a lifelong dream as he prepares to debut his brand-new production, Calipso’s Circus, at The Westend Club - Leicester on Saturday, May 16.
A Journey of Sacrifice and Spectacle
Anthony’s path to the spotlight has been anything but ordinary. From working with giraffes at Dudley Zoo to managing 22 equines and an elephant, and later managing one of the UK’s largest traveling circuses, his life has always been defined by the extraordinary. His career later shifted to the glittering world of pantomime, where he shared stages and dressing rooms with icons like Gok Wan, Paul O’Grady, Bradley Walsh, and Bernie Nolan.
However, in 2019, life took a dramatic turn. When his father suffered a debilitating stroke, Anthony didn't hesitate—he walked away from the limelight to become a full-time carer for his parents.
"I decided to give up my dreams to be there for both my parents," Anthony explains. But while he was off-stage, the spark of showmanship never faded. After battling personal depression, Anthony found healing in creation, first launching the successful "The Ultimate Ladies Night Show" and now, finally, realizing his ultimate goal: his own circus.
A Tribute to the Circus Community
While this debut marks a personal milestone, Anthony is quick to share the credit with the community that supported him.
"I want to take this opportunity to thank all the circus families out there who have always been by my side through the good times and the bad," says Anthony. "Their support has meant everything, and it will truly be remembered for many years to come."
Traditional Magic, Modern Venues
Calipso’s Circus isn’t your typical big-top experience. By bringing high-caliber international talent into community spaces like social clubs, village halls, and theaters, Anthony is making the heritage of the British circus accessible and affordable for a new generation.
"You can be 5 or 95; you will all enjoy our shows," says Anthony. "We aren't in a traditional tent, but we are delivering that traditional magic. My aim is to show people that they should follow their dreams—don't let anything or anyone stop you."
An All-Star International Cast
The Wrexham premiere features a powerhouse lineup:
• Dame Linda Matthews: The powerhouse Ringmistress and vocalist.
• Duo Teplitski: Direct from America’s Got Talent, featuring a two-time Guinness World Record-holding Strongman.
• Vladislav: Masterful hand-balancing all the way from Ukraine.
• Dani from Ethiopia: Performing a gravity-defying Rola Bola act.
• International Star Albert: Showcasing unique freestyle balancing skills.
• Cala: Bringing the elegance of the Hula Hoop.
• Rowdy Roo: A crowd-favorite comedy kangaroo character.
Event Details & Tickets
Anthony is reaching out to local schools and youth groups in the Doncaster area, hoping to inspire children with the message that dreams are worth chasing. Tickets are priced at just £8.00 to ensure every family can enjoy the show.
• Location: Parklands Sports and Social Club
• Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
• Times: Doors open at 3:00 PM | Show starts at 4:00 PM
• Tickets: £8.00 (Under 2s are free)
• Booking: www.ticketsource.co.uk/calipsos-circus
Following the Doncaster premiere, the tour will head to Corby, and Wolverhampton, with more dates to be announced soon. With tickets already "flying out" just days after the announcement, residents are encouraged to book early to witness this spectacular return to the stage.
