As Iowa temperatures climb, a traveling circus is on its way to offer a cooling respite. Setting the Cirque Italia apart is its unique big top, a tent housing a stage surrounded by a 35,000-gallon pool with fountains, and shimmering curtains of water reflecting various lighting effects to enhance the performances.

Cirque Italia's Silver Water Circus is scheduled to make two stops in the state. The first will be at Jordan Creek Town Center, 101 Jordan Creek Pkwy. in West Des Moines, with shows at 7:30 p.m. July 22-25 and 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. July 24 and 25.