From left, Hannah Grove, 16, Eva Lou Rhinelander, 13, and Ariana Wunderle, 14, walk tightropes in high heels during an afternoon performance of Circus Smirkus in Kennebunkport on Thursday.

Lola Picayo, 17, spins on a lyre-shaped bar. Circus Smirkus is a nonprofit circus arts and education organization based in Vermont that tours New England during the summer.

Lola Picayo, 17, spins on a lyre-shaped bar. Circus Smirkus is in the midst of its Big Top Tour, the teen company's 31st annual tour.

Audrey Greaves, 17, center, juggles with other Circus Smirku performers. The performing troupe is made up of 30 teens ranging in age from 13 to 18.

Troy Wunderle, artistic director of Circus Smirkus, balances a cane in the air during a performance of Circus Smirkus in Kennebunkport on Thursday.

Evan Lou Rhinelander, 13, spins hoops while balancing on a tightrope during an afternoon performance of Circus Smirkus in Kennebunkport on Thursday. Circus Smirkus will also perform at 1 and 6 p.m. on Friday at Rockin' Horse Stables in Kennebunkport.

Nemo Mass, 18, left, and Julaine Hall, 14, perform on ropes during an afternoon show of Circus Smirkus on Thursday. The nonprofit group promotes the skills, culture and traditions of the traveling circus.

Nemo Mass, 18, performs on a rope. The group has been touring since June, and will stage 68 performances in 52 days across five states.