Feb 11, 2016 - Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino welcomed The Royal Hanneford Circus for its 41st annual residency at the Westchester County Center. Children in the county's foster program will be able to enjoy this great tradition free of charge thanks to a generous donation of tickets to the Department of Social Services for the fourth year in a row from Intersection, a leader in transit media and a longtime advertising partner of Westchester County.
   "For a parent, nothing means as much as seeing your children smile, especially when times are tough," said Astorino. "Knowing these children will have the opportunity to laugh and cheer at the circus is a blessing. I'm grateful for the generous donation Intersection has made."
   The Royal Hanneford Circus will perform nine shows Feb. 13, 14 and 15. Show times are 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. each day. Tickets are available at the Westchester County Center Box Office, 198 Central Park Ave., White Plains, or via Ticketmaster. Call the County Center at (914) 995-4050 to purchase tickets today.
   Matt Bernstein, an Intersection representative, said the company was pleased to continue a tradition that provides a few hours of fun for families in need.
   "Intersection is happy to once again team up with Rob Astorino and Westchester County DSS to give several foster families the chance to have a blast at the Royal Hanneford Circus," said Bernstein.
   A special feature of this year's production is the addition of the Hanneford Grandchildren. Cathy, Mariana, Adrian Jr. and Tommy are the children of Nellie Hanneford and her husband Adrian. These 8th generation Circus performers are following the footsteps of their famous and talented ancestors.
   "We are excited for children of all ages and their families to experience the magic of the circus," said Billy Martin, circus ringmaster. "We are proud of our 41-year affiliation with Westchester County, and are thrilled to once again partner with the    Department of Social Services and Intersection to provide the Hanneford Circus experience to foster children and their families."
   Foster parent Natalie Santoro was in attendance to meet the circus troupe with her adopted children Navaeh and Julius. Ms. Santoro adopted both natural siblings in order to keep the children together. On hand to meet the performers as well was Mary, age 5, with her foster father Simon Jackson.
   "It is so gratifying to see these kids have fun," said DSS Commissioner Kevin McGuire. "We are thankful to Intersection and The Royal Hanneford Circus for providing some of our foster children the opportunity to attend this wonderful event."
   Westchester Parks Commissioner Kathleen O'Connor said the timing of the annual visit is perfect, considering the chilly forecast.
   "A great way to escape the cold this weekend will be to come inside and enjoy more than two hours of spectacular family entertainment," said O'Connor. "Our parks staff loves when the circus comes to town, and they're excited to welcome everyone to the County Center this weekend."

To purchase tickets online, visit Ticketmaster