Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, the "Greatest Show on Earth," is headed to Baltimore this month. From March 10th to the 21st, clowns, animals, trapezes, motorcyclists, and even Bailey's comet will perform at the 1st Mariner Arena. Replete with 15 clowns, tigers, llamas and even alligators, the show is back for its 133rd year.
Many of the circus' most popular acts return this year. Ringmaster Jonathan Lee Iverson presents Bailey's Comet, a special effects segment displaying the much talked about comet. Audience members will witness a fusion of fire and flight as the comet races through the circus tent. Trainer Mark Oliver Gebel joins tigers in the ring and fearlessly leads the three-ring pachyderm playground. The Globe of Death, a 16 foot metal sphere, contains five motorcyclists racing at over 60 miles per hour within inches of each other. Bello, named by TIME magazine to be "America's Best Clown" promises entertainment as he enters into others' performances in an attempt to add humor to the more dangerous acts.
Additionally, this year's performances include several new acts. The Hebei Troup, a group of Chinese acrobats stun onlookers as they perform alongside Imperial Chinese Lions and balance 20-foot-high poles amidst three rings of whirling wheels. Aerial artists the Sky Surfers combine gymnastics and flying as they soar above audiences.
Two of the three rings will feature out-of-the-ordinary dog tricks. Canine Chaos will be flanked by a father and daughter team, Sacha and Karin Houcke, who dazzle with outrageous zebra and horse tricks.
For first timers, the show is something not to be missed. For returnees, think back on all the excitement under the big top tent you had as a little kid. Tickets range in price from $12 to $35. To purchase tickets, call (410) 481-SEAT. For more information, check out http://www.ringling.com.
