You got a guy™ for tickets
Follow Bindlestiff Family Circus performance dates and be ready when new tickets become available - all backed by our 100% Buyer Guarantee.
On the schedule
No upcoming Bindlestiff Family Circus events are on sale right now.
Check back soon - new performance dates and tickets are added regularly.
Browse other productionsInside the production
Cast & creatives
People behind the production
Bindlestiff Family Circus is a dynamic performance collective founded in 1995 by Keith Nelson and Stephanie Monseu. Based in New York City and the Hudson Valley, they tour nationally with site-specific shows that blend circus, vaudeville, sideshow, burlesque, and live music. The group collaborates with artists like Peter Bufano and Sxip Shirey to create intimate, engaging performances that feel like a living variety show.
On stage
The documented stage experience
Whether on traditional stages or unexpected spaces, Bindlestiff brings a raw, accessible energy that appeals to families, nightlife crowds, and theatre lovers alike. Their work has earned recognition at major cultural institutions and sustained development through ongoing grants, underscoring their role as a cornerstone of contemporary American circus and live performance.
Cast & creatives
People behind the production
Explore their upcoming tour, discography highlights on Bandcamp, and ways to connect with the troupe through social channels for the latest show information.
On stage
The documented stage experience
Biography
Bindlestiff Family Circus emerged from the vibrant New York performance scene in 1995, conceived by Keith Nelson and Stephanie Monseu. The ensemble fuses a broad spectrum of performance traditions—circus acts, vaudeville skits, sideshow curiosities, burlesque elements, and live music—into cohesive, story-driven shows. Their touring model emphasizes site-specific performances, bringing a distinctly American aesthetic to venues ranging from intimate theaters to outdoor festivals.
Cast & creatives
People behind the production
Notable Collaborations
The company frequently collaborates with artists like Peter Bufano and Sxip Shirey, expanding the musical and theatrical palette of their productions. These collaborations contribute to a multi-sensory experience that places equal emphasis on performance craft and story.
On stage
The documented stage experience
Awards & Recognition
Bindlestiff has participated in prestigious programs, including the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in 2017, which highlighted their crossover appeal and artistry. They maintain the Bindlestiff First of May Award development grants, an ongoing initiative since 2012 that supports emerging artists in the circus and performance communities.
The essentials
Biography
Bindlestiff Family Circus emerged from the vibrant New York performance scene in 1995, conceived by Keith Nelson and Stephanie Monseu. The ensemble fuses a broad spectrum of performance traditions—circus acts, vaudeville skits, sideshow curiosities, burlesque elements, and live music—into cohesive, story-driven shows. Their touring model emphasizes site-specific performances, bringing a distinctly American aesthetic to venues ranging from intimate theaters to outdoor festivals.
Notable Collaborations
The company frequently collaborates with artists like Peter Bufano and Sxip Shirey, expanding the musical and theatrical palette of their productions. These collaborations contribute to a multi-sensory experience that places equal emphasis on performance craft and story.
Awards & Recognition
Bindlestiff has participated in prestigious programs, including the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in 2017, which highlighted their crossover appeal and artistry. They maintain the Bindlestiff First of May Award development grants, an ongoing initiative since 2012 that supports emerging artists in the circus and performance communities.
Discography Highlights
While Bindlestiff does not have a full-length album, they release digital singles through Bandcamp, offering fans a glimpse into their musical world. Notable tracks include The Merch Song, Bindlestiff Quarantine Theme, And Now, Your Host..., and Bindlestiff Exit Music. You can explore these releases at their official Bandcamp page.
Upcoming Tours & Venues
The troupe maintains an active touring schedule across the United States with engagements in major markets and regional venues. 2025 activities included performances in Battery Park City (NYC), St. Joseph (MO), Des Moines (IA), Kutztown (PA), Branchburg (NJ), and Stony Brook (NY), along with youth-focused events. For the latest dates, check the official event pages and venue listings.
Social & Website
Stay in touch with Bindlestiff through their official channels for updates, clips, and behind-the-scenes looks: Bindlestiff.org | Bandcamp: Bandcamp | Facebook: Facebook | YouTube: YouTube | Instagram: Instagram.
Pick your night