A travelling circus is making its way to Alberta this month, setting up just outside Calgary at CrossIron Mills. Cirque Italia’s Water Circus Nautilus is bringing a European-inspired production to the area, featuring aerialists, acrobats, BMX riders, and the Wheel of Death.
The show will take place inside the White and Blue Big Top Tent, with a custom stage designed to hold over 35,000 gallons of water.
Here’s everything you need to know about catching the show later this month.
What to expect at the Water Circus Nautilus
What is Cirque Italia?
Cirque Italia is an Italian entertainment company founded in 2012 that brings circus performances to audiences across North America. According to Cirque Italia, the company travels with its own customized big-top tent and large-scale production setup, creating theatrical shows that incorporate stunts, visual effects, and acrobatics.
One of Cirque Italia’s defining features is its Water Circus concept, which incorporates a custom stage capable of holding up to 35,000 gallons of water.
What happens at the Water Circus Nautilus show?
Cirque Italia hosts a variety of themed shows throughout the year, each bringing its own storyline and visual elements to the travelling circus. Water Circus Nautilus takes inspiration from the underwater world, and you’ll see that theme woven into the performance.
During the show, you’ll be able to watch performers take on aerial hoops and straps, trapezes, BMX bikes, roller skates, contortion, along with the Wheel of Death. You will also enjoy plenty of visual elements, including fountains, rain curtains, and laser lights, which add to the show’s underwater atmosphere.
What is the Wheel of Death?
The Wheel of Death is a large rotating circus apparatus made up of two open-ended wheels attached to a long frame. Performers stand, run, and move inside the spinning wheels while trying to complete a series of stunts as the apparatus rotates.
Is the event family-friendly?
Water Circus Nautilus is suitable for all ages, so it’s a great option for a family outing. Children ages 2 to 12 require their own ticket, while children under two can attend for free as long as they sit on a parent’s lap throughout the show.
What do I need to know about accessibility?
Cirque Italia offers accessible seating along with companion seating. These seats aren’t available through the regular online checkout, so guests looking for accessible seating should contact the box office ahead of the show to make arrangements.
When can I see it?
Water Circus Nautilus will run from Friday, Sept. 18 until Monday, Sept. 28, with performances scheduled for both the afternoon and evening.
Here’s a look at the full schedule:
- Friday, Sept. 18: 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, Sept. 19: 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, Sept. 20: 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
- Monday, Sept. 21: 7:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, Sept. 23: 7:30 p.m.
- Thursday, Sept. 24: 7:30 p.m.
- Friday, Sept. 25: 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, Sept. 26: 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, Sept. 27: 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
- Monday, Sept. 28: 7:30 p.m.
Where is Water Circus Nautilus happening?
The event will be set up under Cirque Italia’s White and Blue Top Tent in the Cross Iron Mills parking area, on the north side of the parking lot. CrossIron Mills is in Balzac, just outside Calgary, making it an easy drive from the city.
When you arrive, you can park in the mall’s free parking area and head towards the north side of the parking lot, where you’ll find the large Cirque Italia tent.
How much are tickets?
Tickets to Cirque Italia’s Water Circus Nautilus start at $25 for children and $40 for adults, with prices increasing by seating section. The most expensive tickets are currently listed at $80 for adults and $85 for premium seating, while premium child tickets range from $45 to $80.
You can purchase tickets online through Cirque Italia’s official ticketing page, where you can select your preferred performance and available seats.
When: Friday, Sept. 18 to Monday, Sept. 28, 2026
Time: Show times vary based on date
Where: CrossIron Mills – 261055 Crossiron Blvd., Rocky View, Alta.
Cost: Prices vary depending on seats; Children (ages 2 to 12): starting at $25, Adults: starting at $40
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Kaiya Williams
Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.
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