In the Ringling Bros. production BellobrationSM, Nik performed with Bello Nock– with whom he has been a friend “forever” – on a newly contrived, double version of the Wheel of Steel. Actually two double-sided wheels side-by-side, he and Bello each started at one end and ended up on the other. They also chased each other inside and outside the wheels. They ended with the wheels separated, moving counter to each other, but still side-by-side. About the production, Nik added that: “It’s a challenge to come up with new ideas, things that haven’t been done before. Especially when you come from a family that is known for ‘firsts,’ I feel that I have a lot to live up to.”

Nik and Erendira have three children, Yanni, Amadaos, and Evita, who, stunningly, have DNA passed down from 25 generations of circus performers. Which leads to the family’s most ambitious dream: for Nik to honor the memory of his great-grandfather Karl, and walk across the Grand Canyon. He has already secured the permits.