The field between the Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre (AELEC) and the Sports Dome will now play host to the giant tent and the magic that happens under it's roof.

It is understood the circus' operators, acting on advice from council decided to move the circus to the field because the ground at Cross Park - the circus' original location for the duration of its stay in the city was to wet under foot.

A spokesperson for council said yesterday the decision to change the venue had been made on Sunday.

Night one of the circus' visit to Tamworth will be a mayor's charity performance raising funds for the Slim and Joy Statue Appeal, this Thursday, February 9.

The Appeal, which is raising money for a statue of Slim Dusty and his wife Joy McKean, similar to the one of Smoky Dawson unveiled in the city on Australia Day was announced at the opening of the 2012 Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Tamworth Regional Council mayor Col Murray said the proceeds from Thursday night's charity night at the circus would form part of the $50,000 donation to the fund.

The Slim and Joy Statue Appeal Committee aims to raise about $180,000 for the project which has been endorsed by council and the late Slim Dusty's family.

It is expected that statue would be installed by January 2014.

Highlights of the circus are said to include the 'Globe of Death', the 'Trampoline Troupe', 'Russian Rolla Bola', the 'European Statue Act' plus the clowns and a high wire acts.

The two-hour show will also include acts of head spinning virtuosity, elegant mastery and fun-filled entertainment that organisers say will will have circus-goers on the edge of their seats.

Tickets for the Tamworth Regional Council mayor's charity performance can be purchased from the Tamworth Visitor's Information Centre.