WILKES-BARRE – Hold onto your hats, thrill-seekers! The spectacular Nitro Circus is gearing up to take over Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza on the evening of Tuesday, November 19, at 7:30 p.m. Leading up to this adrenaline-pumping extravaganza, the enigmatic founder of Nitro Circus and American action sports legend, Travis Pastrana, shared his fervent insights during a vibrant phone interview.
Attendees can brace themselves for an unforgettable night filled with gravity-defying stunts crafted by a crew of exceptionally skilled athletes. “Prepare to witness the audacious—because rest assured, this wild team will test the very boundaries of physics!” Pastrana exclaimed enthusiastically. “Bring your excitement and your loudness, and we will send it big. That’s the magic of live performances; each time, someone attempts something that’s never been executed before!”
Pastrana, a veritable titan in the realm of motorsports, has amassed a treasure trove of awards—championships, world records, and multiple X Games gold medals covering supercross, motocross, freestyle motocross, rally racing, and beyond. In the dynamic sphere of action sports, he’s done it all, or at the very least, boldly attempted it!
Nitro Circus, birthed in 2003 from the spirited camaraderie of friends pursuing wild adventures, has evolved from a humble video series to a global phenomenon, embodying the very essence of action sports. The zeitgeist of the 90s, when extreme sports burst into the mainstream spotlight with the advent of the X Games, MTV stunts, and the iconic Tony Hawk’s™ Pro Skater™, provided fertile ground for Pastrana and his crew. “We were just your typical American rednecks,” Pastrana chuckled nostalgically.
In 2007, following the passing of the legendary Evel Knievel, Johnny Knoxville sought out the daredevil Pastrana for an MTV special—a significant moment that would catapult Nitro Circus into international fame. With Knoxville serving as a major inspiration, Pastrana pitched the idea of a show centered around gravity-defying stunts, leading to a whirlwind world tour that began in earnest. “The best part is that it showcased the essence of action sports in a new light,” he noted, contrasting it with “Jackass,” where stunts were often designed to fail. “In Nitro Circus, our ethos is never to plan for failure.”
Thanks to Nitro Circus’s fresh portrayal of extreme sports, a new appreciation has arisen among parents and educators, who now see the passion, excitement, and sheer joy that fuel these athletes’ pursuits. It’s transforming perceptions—sparking dialogue about the meaningful purpose behind extreme sports.
“The shift has been monumental. Guardians are no longer mere spectators; they’re on their feet, cheering!” Pastrana excitedly remarked. The Nitro Circus ensemble is a melting pot of innovation and thrill, a commingling of fervor shared between the athletes and their dedicated fans.
Leading the charge for this tour is Ryan Williams, affectionately dubbed R-Willy, an acclaimed big-air X Games competitor and social media sensation. “This show, we have so much new that’s going into it; Ryan Williams has taken the reins,” Pastrana declared, underscoring Williams’s creative direction.
The Wilkes-Barre lineup features stalwarts of the original Nitro Circus crew who have captured hearts on MTV. Aaron “Wheelz” Fotheringham—a trailblazer in WCMX—is scheduled to perform, famed for pulling off backflips in a wheelchair and redefining what’s possible for athletes with disabilities. “It’s awe-inspiring to witness his bravery,” Pastrana emphasized. “So many kids show up just to see him!”
In addition to Wheelz, the lineup boasts stars like Adam Jones—six-time X-Games medalist—and BMX icon Andy Buckworth, known for his groundbreaking Superman double front flip. Together, they’ll push the envelope of what’s conceivable in high-flying stunts and electrifying acts.
As a holder of numerous world records, how does Pastrana consistently reinvent the Nitro Circus experience? “It all boils down to passion,” he reflected. “The toughest part on tour is resisting the urge to try every spectacular idea on day one.” While there’s a loose script for their shows, spontaneity often reigns supreme. “Every night, a newcomer or seasoned Olympian surprises us all by pushing beyond their limits,” Pastrana added, emphasizing the ever-evolving thrill of their performances.
Safety remains paramount amid the thrill; the team meticulously strategizes to minimize risks while delivering jaw-dropping spectacle. “Every stunt is so carefully calculated. Crashes will happen, but we focus on thorough preparations to ensure everything is as secure as possible,” he assured, highlighting their commitment to safety practices.
Nitro Circus stands as a beacon of excitement, continuously captivating audiences globally while fostering a strong bond with fans. Expanding across continents—reaching from Japan to France—they’re committed to inspiring the next generation to disconnect from screens and chase adventure. “Ultimately, my mission is to create a platform for kids—to empower their dreams regardless of their background,” Pastrana expressed. “It’s about fun, travel, and making dreams come true through Nitro Circus, and that brings immeasurable joy.”
In every leap from ramps, every turn of the wheel, Travis Pastrana has redefined what it means to embrace action sports, carving a path filled with dedication and heart. He’s navigating exhilarating heights not just in his career but in his cherished personal life, surrounded by the camaraderie of friends and the joy of inspiring his daughters. “At this stage of my life, it’s surreal to make a living while traveling the globe with loved ones, showing my kids the hard work behind these extraordinary athletes,” he reflected. “The family aspect has been incredibly fulfilling.”
Prepare for a night of unmatched spectacle when Nitro Circus flips into Mohegan Arena this November 19. You won’t want to miss witnessing the impossible come to life!
