By Lori EhdeFans of Big Tent entertainment are in for a treat Monday when the Culpepper and Merriweather Circus comes to Luverne.With one ring and 40 employees, it’s not a large act by some standards, but local residents who took in the show two years ago said it’s just right for a small town."Most of the people there encouraged us to do it again," said Dave Smith of the Luverne Area Chamber of Commerce, the sponsoring organization."It was a very clean circus, the employees were well-kept. It was a class act, we thought, for a small circus. We were very, very pleased."He said reaction has been similar in area towns, where the Culpepper and Merriweather Circus is also returning this year.It will be in Pipestone Sunday, Luverne on Monday and Rock Rapids, Iowa, Tuesday.In Luverne, there will be two performances Monday night at the Rock County Fairgrounds, from 5 to 6:30 pm. and from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Advance tickets are available at the Chamber office, the local banks, M-M Farm and Home Discount, and at Glen’s Food Center.Advance tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for children 12 and younger, and children under 2 are free. Tickets will be available in advance through Sunday, but on Monday they must be purchased at the gate.On show day, tickets cost $2 more — $9 for adults and $7 for children 12 and younger. "So we encourage everyone to get them early and save money," Smith said.On Monday at 9 a.m., the public is invited to watch Connie and Barbara erect the Big Top with traditional elephant power.Also free on Monday is a 45-minute endangered species show starting at 10 a.m. It will feature the rest of the animals in the Culpepper and Merriweather family.At 4:30 p.m. on Monday, the midway opens with elephant and pony rides, Moon Bounce, Titanic Slide and concessions.The Culpepper and Merriweather Circus is in its 20th season of entertaining this summer.Call the Chamber, 283-4061, with questions.
