A now-familiar landmark in Grand Center is reopening for the first time since the global pandemic hit the St. Louis region last year.
The Big Top, the multi-purpose venue on Washington Avenue in the heart of the Grand Center Arts District, will be erected and reopen in March for a full schedule of entertainment through the remainder of 2021.
Headlining the events calendar will be performances and offerings from local arts organizations such as Dance St. Louis, Big Muddy Dance Company, Circus Flora, St. Louis Fringe Festival and Jamo concerts, among others.
The massive, tent-like event space has been upgraded to be in compliance with COVID-19 safety measures, including installation of new restrooms, implementing tech improvements, and making concession sales contactless through a pre-order and QR code system.
“We are thrilled to bring one of St. Louis’ favorite venues back to life this year with an exciting array of world-class entertainment that our audiences have been desperately craving,” said Chris Hansen, executive director of the Kranzberg Arts Foundation, which oversees operations of The Big Top. “With a limited capacity and our proven COVID-19 mitigation policies in place, we will provide a safe and comfortable experience for our guests.”
The Big Top has a 1,200-person capacity, which will be reduced to comply with COVID guidelines when it reopens next month. Normally in operation from April to October, the pandemic forced the cancellation of 2020 events scheduled at the venue.
A full schedule of performances and events for The Big Top for 2021 will be released at a later date.
