Marinelli Bros. Circus performers pose with CEO Ida Lopez Chan (middle), Eden Valley Care Center administrator Brian Weaver and resident Juanita Ramirez during a mini show at Eden Valley Care Center in Soledad on Aug. 6. (Adriana Gonzalez)

SOLEDAD — The garden at Eden Valley Care Center was filled with joy and laughter last Wednesday afternoon as residents and staff were treated to a special mini performance by the Marinelli Bros. Circus.

The Aug. 6 event featured a preview of the circus’s full show, with four acts including clown performances, juggling and interactive moments that delighted the audience. The visit brought a welcome dose of happiness not only to residents but also to the healthcare workers who support them daily.

“Our residents felt seen, celebrated and entertained,” said Ida Lopez Chan, CEO of the Soledad Community Health Care District, which includes Eden Valley Care Center. “This event meant a great deal to our team and to the people we serve.”

Founded by fifth-generation performers Patrick and Josue Marinelli, the Marinelli Bros. Circus made this special stop in Soledad ahead of its official Salinas tour, which runs Aug. 7 through 18 at Northridge Mall.

Matti the Clown entertains residents during the Marinelli Bros. Circus mini show at Eden Valley Care Center in Soledad on Aug. 6. (Adriana Gonzalez)

“Our performers were excited to bring some smiles and laughter to the seniors at Eden Valley Care Center,” said Emily Lavender White, marketing director for the Marinelli Bros. Circus. 

As part of their visit, the Marinelli Bros. Circus also donated complimentary tickets for district healthcare workers to attend the full circus show in Salinas.

Eden Valley Care Center, part of the Soledad Community Health Care District, is a leading four-star skilled nursing facility in Soledad, as rated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). For more information, visit edenvalleycare.com.

Launched in March 2025, the Marinelli Bros. Circus is a family-operated production rooted in the legacy of Circus Vargas. Led by the Marinelli brothers, the circus features classic and contemporary acts that entertain audiences of all ages. The troupe regularly partners with community organizations and donates tickets to youth and healthcare workers, sharing the spirit of the circus with everyone. For more information and showtimes, visit MarinelliBrosCircus.com.

Previous articleCommunity Foundation for Monterey County reports record year of impact
A staff member wrote, edited or posted this article, which may include information provided by one or more third parties.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here