Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey Circus is the stuff of ‘Legends’

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And, as always, the animals are a big draw, led by the Ringling Bros. Asian elephants. Joining those famed pachyderms are all sorts of members of the animal kingdom, that make up what Iverson describes as “the world’s largest menagerie.”
The big cats, under the watchful eye of award-winning animal trainer Alexander Lacey, fascinate audiences with their majesty and agility. Lacey, who made his Ringling Bros. debut in 2012, returns with a leopard in addition to his lions and tigers. He summons brazen bravado and valor as he takes the cats through their paces, with his seemingly fearless command of the big cats’ agility and strength that demonstrates unconditional respect between man and predator.
Then there are the rescue dogs, performing pigs, llamas, kangaroos, donkeys, and a special surprise — a woolly mammoth. This whimsical representation of the animal world captures the hearts of audiences, says Iverson. “It is an all-encompassing event that is pure entertainment. We create a dynamic synergy with so many elements. And I’m the best-dressed guy in the arena,” he adds. “Come on out and have a good time.”
Iverson encourages everyone to stop by the Animal Open House, free with admission, prior to show time. Visitors can meet Ringling Bros. biggest stars, the Asian Elephants, along with other animal performers. It opens 90 minutes before the show begins.
Also, check out the All Access Pre-Show, held an hour before performances. Step onto the arena floor and meet the cast and learn circus skills like juggling from some of the stars of Clown Alley.
And if you’ve got the hankering to join the circus, Ringling Bros. is holding a clown audition on Wednesday, March 12, at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. “We’re always on the look out for people with the passion, commitment and the ability to connect with today’s contemporary circus fans,” says David Kiser, director of talent at Ringling Bros. “The New York metro area is the perfect place to look for our next legendary clown star.” For more information and to register for the audition, visit www.ringling.com/clownauditions/.

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