Australian Circus Oz is kicking off its new North American tour with three performances this weekend in Tacoma. Formed in 1978, Oz is a rock and roll, animal free circus of musicians, acrobats, contortionists and artsy clowns. However, because Oz doesn't have the financial backing of Cirque du Soleil, it only has a dozen or so performers doing all the acts. Whether you've been awaiting its show or have never heard of them before, read five reasons you should be Circus Oz's new biggest fan here.

PANTAGES THEATER, CIRCUS OZ, FRIDAY, FEB. 1 7:30 P.M., SATURDAY, FEB. 2 2 AND 7:30 P.M., $39-$129, 901 BROADWAY, TACOMA, 253.591.5894