Created during the COVID-19 pandemic, Stars Above is an outdoor family friendly circus, a modern take on the nostalgic small touring circuses from over two hundred years ago. Featuring an all-star cast of circus performers and musicians, the show centers around a day in the life of a traveling family troupe.

Combining elements of contemporary and classical circus, Stars Above explores and celebrates our interwoven connections to loved ones, community, and what we’ve lost. The all-ages production is performed outdoors, under the vast canopy of sky and stars, on a custom-built circular stage and aerial rig.

The production toured for three seasons to 7 states and 32 towns during the summers 2021, 2022, and 2023.

TEASER TRAILER

THE MAKING OF

Learn more about the creation of Stars Above

CREATIVE TEAM

  • Creative Producer and Artistic Director

    Josh and Lyndsay Aviner stand at the helm of Hideaway Circus, steering the course of innovation in circus and dance. Their celebrated productions, like the open-air spectacle Stars Above, unique juggling show Reflex, and the two-time Drama Desk nominated Beyond Babel, demonstrate their flair for blending compelling narratives with physical artistry. Their podcast series offers an insider's look at the industry, further cementing their influence in the performing arts world.

  • Composer and Music Producer

    Jacob's multifaceted career in music spans from jazz composition at Berklee College of Music to a Master's in Jazz Studies from NYU. As part of the indie-fusion quartet Porterfield, he's been nominated for Jazz Artist of the Year at the Boston Music Awards. His work transcends genres, enriching everything from short films to live performances with his inventive soundscapes.

    jacobavinermusic.com

  • Comedic Act Designer

    Spencer's creative prowess in comedy has been showcased across prestigious venues, including the Sahara Las Vegas and the Sydney Opera House. His role in crafting comedic acts for productions like Blanc de Blanc and Love Riot highlights his versatility and innovation in entertainment, making him a pivotal figure in the creation of memorable, laughter-filled experiences.

    spencernovich.com

  • Choreographer

    Eric is a movement artist and educator based in New Jersey & New York. He is currently a faculty teacher at Peridance Center in Manhattan, a member of Shinsa the Collective, a New York City based dance company directed by Bo Park, and a cast member of Beyond Babel, an Off-Broadway theater dance show by Keone and Mari Madrid and Hideaway Circus.

  • Lighting Designer

    Jeff's lighting designs have illuminated Broadway and beyond, earning him a Tony Award alongside nominations for Drama Desk and Outer Critics Awards. His work with the Big Apple Circus and on productions like Newsies and Peter and the Starcatcher reflects his ability to craft atmospheric brilliance in a variety of theatrical settings.

    jeffcroiter.com

  • Costume Designer

    Barbara's expertise spans theater, dance, and opera, with designs that have adorned performers at the Williamstown Theatre Company, Martha Graham Dance Company, and beyond. Her training at SUNY Binghamton and NYU Tisch School of the Arts lays the foundation for her innovative and visually captivating costume designs.

    barbaraerin.com

  • Sound Designer

    Ben's sonic creations have enhanced off-Broadway shows, Cirque du Soleil performances, and regional theater productions. A tinkerer and mentor at Dartmouth College, Ben's interactive sonic environments are central to the immersive experience of audiences, showcasing his inventive approach to sound design in the performing arts.

    scheffsound.com