Tag: grounds acts

Brian Sobaski brings straw to life in front of your eyes

Brian Sobaski is bringing some unique art to the N.C. State Fair in 2022 – something you’ve probably never seen. He’s creating straw sculptures of animals, and you can watch him at work three times a day during the fair. You’ll find him beside the breezeway outside the Agri Supply Expo Center. This is the first time Sobaski has ever created his works of art while an audience is watching. He usually creates straw sculptures before an event and leaves them to be viewed after he’s gone. While he’s a bit shy naturally, he’ll happily answer questions as he works…

Continue Reading

Paul Bunyan’s Lumberjack Show still delivers after decades of fair appearances

Lee LeCaptain loves bringing the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show to the N.C. State Fair. It’s something he first did in the early 90’s. At that time, the show was based in Heritage Circle, and it made use of the pond there. “To me [this fair] is one of the best in the nation. I enjoy it probably better than any other state fair in the country,” LeCaptain said after a recent show during the 2021 fair. “I come here, it’s like home. It’s just very comfortable. It’s almost like here is a vacation, but I’m still working hard. I work…

Continue Reading

It pays to be a professional showoff

Did your mom every tell you to stop showing off? Chances are Arthur Fratelli heard the same thing from his mom. Good thing he never listened because if he had, we may not have been lucky enough to have this professional showoff come to the N.C. State Fair. Fratelli is one of the amazing grounds acts that will make this year’s State Fair one to remember. Since this is Arthur’s first time performing at the N.C. State Fair, we decided to take some time to learn a little more about him and his act. And, what better way to learn…

Continue Reading

Roaming acts are up, down and all around

You never know where you will find one of the many free roaming acts at the Fair. These world-class entertainers can be found high among the trees, scooting along the grounds and everywhere in between. For starters, look up to the sky. You might see our resident stilt walker, Carrie McQueen, juggling through the crowd on her extended legs. She’s back this year with all of her eccentric costumes. Rock-It the Robot, towering at 9 feet tall, won’t be hard to find either. If you have trouble, listen for the music  and the crowd dancing to the beat around him. There are plenty…

Continue Reading