HIGH-FLYING DAREDEVILS, a kangaroo that packs a wallop and more clowns than you can fit into a Volkswagen Beetle. Sounds like the kind of surreal fun normally reserved for Fellini or Looney Toons, but it's all part of the daily festivities at the Yaarab Shrine Circus & Carnival. Billed as the world's largest Shrine Circus, this 66th annual event kicks off this week. Here's a look at some of the zaniness to be found in the midway and under the big top.

Call of the wild: No circus is complete without well-trained animals doing stunts. And there's no shortage of beasts here with Bruno Blaszak's Incredible Performing Tigers, the Magnificent Franzen Elephants and Erika Zerbini and her Arabian horses all taking part in the show. And appearing for the first time will be Rocky, a boxing kangaroo that has appeared in circuses around the world, as well as on the 2002 prime-time TV show "Andy Richter Controls the Universe."

RENEE' HANNANS HENRY/Special (ENLARGE)
Apparently Bruno Blaszak is the cat's meow. At least that's the way it looks as he gets a smooch from one of his tigers during a performance at the Yaarab Shrine Circus & Carnival.
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Clowning around: Known for wearing fezzes, riding go-karts and putting on clown costumes year-round, the Shriners are a charitable bunch in numerous ways. And for the next few days, their cause is to bring smiles to kids' faces with their zany antics. But they won't be the only reason to bust a gut as Don Otto the High Diving Fool provides additional physical comedy with the help of a diving board and trampoline.

Adrenaline rush: The Shrine Circus also provides plenty of thrills and excitement with acrobats, trapeze artistry and stunt shows. The Sky Masters Sway Pole Sensation flings daredevils high into the air and swings them within inches of the ground while the Winn Troupe Sky Cycles take motorcycling to new levels atop a high wire. And the Globe of Death puts up to seven motorcycles at a time inside a metal sphere, where they ride in circles within very close quarters for more high-risk entertainment.

Midway marvels: In addition to all the circus activities, there's also a carnival midway with games, vendors, food, a flea market and a Ferris wheel. And rides such as the Orbiter, Cliff Hanger, Freak Out and others will provide plenty more thrills if the circus shows aren't enough. For smaller patrons, there will also be a plethora of kiddie rides, pony rides and a free petting zoo.

• THE 411: 66th annual Yaarab Shrine Circus & Carnival and Flea Market. $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 12 and younger; $3 parking; 75 cents for ride tickets (rides require two-four tickets each). Discounts and specials can be found online. April 24-May 4 (times vary). Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road, Marietta. 770-425-2331, www.circus2008.org.