Circus Will Meet With Neighbors

Ongoing complaints about noise during Cirque du Soleil’s performances will be addressed at a special meeting next week.

Since rehearsals began Jan. 23 at the Orange County Fairgrounds, people who live near the circus tent on Fairview Road have lodged complaints with fair officials, the City Council and the French Canadian Cirque.

Neighbors rallied in the past to close down the fairgrounds’ Pacific Amphitheater and its regular rock concerts for similar reasons.

The fair and Cirque responded by meeting with residents, analyzing noise levels and eliminating and toning down louder elements during evening shows. Performers also have reduced intermission times so night shows conclude earlier.

Still, some residents say they have to put up with bothersome music, special effects and loud applause six days a week, and they are not satisfied.

“While some of the neighbors have noticed a reduction of sound with these changes, there are still mixed results,” said Becky Bailey-Findley, general manager of the fairgrounds.

The circus is in town through April 13.

Many residents protested to the City Council last week. Council members agreed to help negotiate but said the fair’s directors govern the grounds.

Thursday’s meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the fair’s Home Arts Building, 88 Fair Drive.

Information: (714) 708-FAIR.