Don't forget to bring the kids an hour before showtime to meet some of the performers up close in the center ring. The circus runs through July 20 at Compaq Center, 10 East Greenway Plaza. For a complete schedule and tickets, call 713-629-3700 or visit www.ringling.com. $12 to $36. -- Greg Barr
SAT 7/19
Wave of Humiliation
A kid doesn't need a golden ticket to win a year's supply of candy. He just
has to win a surfing contest. In the Wonka Wave Surf Challenge (an event that
must
be as embarrassing to kids as Huggies Pull-Ups commercials), kids ages eight
to 14 will ride a stationary surfboard, demonstrating their "wacky" surfing
techniques for judges -- including the big kahuna candyman himself, Willy Wonka.
To all the sugar-buzzed hams out there, surf's up! 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday,
July 19. Six Flags WaterWorld, 9001 Kirby. For information, call 713-799-8404. -- Troy Schulze
FRI 7/18
Laugh and Learn
If your kid isn't so good about sharing his toys, perhaps a trip to Magic Theatre will help. The Children's Theatre Festival production teaches values such as generosity and kindness while entertaining the little jerks with comedy. The show runs from Friday, July 18, through August 3 at the Lyndall Finley Wortham Theatre at the University of Houston, entrance no. 16 (off I-45 and Cullen Boulevard). For information, call 713-743-2929. $6 to $7. -- Cathy Matusow