Don’t Miss Holiday Circus Spectacular "Merry Mayhem" at the New Victory Theater
The New Victory Theater continues its 30th birthday celebrations this December with the high-energy holiday circus, Merry Mayhem.
If you’re looking for a high-energy holiday show that’ll have the whole family in stitches, Merry Mayhem is it! Jam-packed with acrobatics, pranks, live music, and side-splitting Aussie humor, Melbourne’s legendary Circus Oz is returning to the New Victory this December with a new riotous circus spectacular to help celebrate the theater’s big 30th Birthday Season.
From the free hands-on lobby activities to a special ticket deal, here’s everything parents need to know before heading to 42nd Street for this high-flying, holiday spectacle.

Acrobatics, pranks, and live music make this holiday show a ton of fun.
What exactly is Merry Mayhem?
Merry Mayhem is a wild circus show filled with slapstick comedy, aerial stunts, physical theater, and a live rock band. Expect tumbles, tussles, trapeze, and over-the-top characters.
The show leans into the Australian idea of a larrikin—a cheeky, mischievous rule-breaker who gets into good-natured trouble!
What ages is the show recommended for?
Merry Mayhem is recommended for ages 5 and up, but it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family! The humor is kid-friendly and the acrobatics will wow all ages–while helping to keep the youngest viewers in their seats.
Is the show accessible for children of all abilities and needs?
New Victory is deeply committed to accessibility to ensure that all kids can experience the joys of live theater. During every performance, families can visit the Accessibility Table for sensory fidgets, earplugs, light-sensitivity glasses, and other tools, or they can head to the sensory-friendly Cozy Zone for a break from all the action. Accessible seating and assistive listening devices are also available for all shows.
Note that Merry Mayhem does include loud music and some roughhousing. There will be an ASL-interpreted performance of the show on Saturday, December 13th at 5:00 pm and an audio-described performance on Sunday, December 14th at 5:00 pm.
What’s the run time of Merry Mayhem?
The Merry Mayhem run time is 75 minutes with no intermission.
If your kid can sit through a full-length movie in theaters, you should be all set!
Are there activities for kids before or after the show?
Yes—and they’re FREE! New Victory offers hands-on lobby activities 45 minutes before and for 20 minutes after every performance.
Families can try movement challenges, learn performance skills, and take part in other activities inspired by Merry Mayhem. Staff members guide kids through everything, making it accessible for kids of all comfort levels and abilities.
There will also be a photo op with members of the company following each performance.

Awe-inspiring aerial stunts keep all ages on the edge of their seats.
When does Merry Mayhem run?
Merry Mayhem runs from Friday, December 5th through December 28th, 2025. Choose from 12:00 pm, 5:00 pm, and 7:00 pm performances on select Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Where is the New Victory Theater?
The New Victory Theater is located at 209 W 42nd Street, between 7th and 8th Avenues.
The theater is just steps from the Times Square-42nd Street station, making it easily accessible by subway!
How much are tickets? And where can I buy them?
Tickets start at $30 for all ages. And, in honor of the theater’s 30th birthday, New Victory is offering a special deal–a select number of orchestra and mezzanine tickets available for just $30! These discounted tickets—available through December 11th only—are first come, first served, with no code or coupon required.
Tickets can be purchased by phone at 646-223-3010, in person at the New Victory Box Office, or right here on the New Victory website.
What makes Merry Mayhem a great holiday outing for families?
If you want a show that’s festive without being a traditional holiday story, Merry Mayhem is a wildly wonderful alternative. It’s filled with big laughs and bold stunts that are sure to make for a special holiday memory for the whole family. Get more show details and snag your Merry Mayhem tickets here!
