Circus comes to Butler Eagle

March 08, 2024 Last Updated: March 08, 2024 10:23 PM Local News

Emma Petrovic, 5, from Chicora looks at the display at the Jimmy Bashline Hand-Carved Miniature Circus on display at Butler Eagle on Friday March 8, 2024. Justin Guido/Special to the Eagle

The Jay Bee Circus, created by the late Butler artist Jimmy Bashline in the 20 years following his discharge from the military after World War II, will soon be available for public viewing at the Butler Eagle, 514 W. Wayne St., until a permanent home is found for the 10-by-14-foot display.

A soft opening, by invitation only, was held Friday, and general manager Tammy Schuey said the public will be able to view the Jay Bee Circus beginning next week with showtimes to be announced in the newspaper and online at www.butlereagle.com.

A $5 donation will be requested of adults; admission for children age 16 and younger will be free. Volunteer docents are also sought.

Emma Petrovic, 5, from Chicora hands out popcorn in a small popcorn truck at the Jimmy Bashline Hand-Carved Miniature Circus on display at Butler Eagle on Friday March 8, 2024. Justin Guido/Special to the Eagle

Jim Lunn takes in the display at the Jimmy Bashline Hand-Carved Miniature Circus on display at Butler Eagle on Friday March 8, 2024. Justin Guido/Special to the Eagle

Aryl Bashline which is Jimmy Bashline’s daughter takes photos of the display at the Jimmy Bashline Hand-Carved Miniature Circus on display at Butler Eagle on Friday March 8, 2024. Justin Guido/Special to the Eagle

An elephant squirts water at the Jimmy Bashline Hand-Carved Miniature Circus on display at Butler Eagle on Friday March 8, 2024. Justin Guido/Special to the Eagle

Emma Petrovic, 5, from Chicora honks the horn of a small popcorn truck that was on display at the Jimmy Bashline Hand-Carved Miniature Circus on display at Butler Eagle on Friday March 8, 2024. Justin Guido/Special to the Eagle