The world-famous Cirque du Soleil is returning to St. Petersburg for the first time in seven years. They are performing a monthlong series of shows called “Bazzar” under a huge big top in the Tropicana Field parking lot. The show opens Thursday night and runs through March 24, using the company’s famous blend of traditional circus acts with thematic storytelling and stylish athleticism. “Bazzar” launched in Mumbai in 2018, and this is its first tour of North America.

The colorfully dressed Cirque du Soleil characters bring India’s famous street markets to life. Set in an interacive, intimate stage with fire breathing and stilt walking, the show also uses break dancing, live music, teeter board, tightrope, balancing acts, bicycles, spinning wheels, aerial work and a host of seemingly improbable physical feats. Tickets start at $42 at cirquedusoleil.com/bazzar. This week’s shows are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Friday (Feb. 22-23); 3:30 and 7 p.m. Saturday (Feb. 24); and at 1 and 4:30 p.m. Sunday (Feb. 25) at Tropicana Field, 1 Tropicana Drive, St. Petersburg.