The Greatest Show on Earth

September 04, 2012

Perhaps you have heard of The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey: The Greatest Show on Earth. From their humble beginnings to their over the top popularity, there might be more to this show than meets the eye. In fact, this year marks the 93rd Anniversary of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey officially uniting as one circus. Prior to this, the circuses ran independently of the other.

Since 1989, my family has been joining many others in welcoming the circus to Kansas City. In fact, my brother, Dustin Portillo, now resides as the Red Unit’s Boss Clown. He was asked to join about six years ago. So for me, remembering this anniversary is a source of pride for my family.

Without these individuals coming together, we would not have the great memories we hold on to today. If you’re interested in the history of the circus, want to know more about the animals that call the circus their home, or are enthralled by the cheeky music of the big top, check out MCPL for all your circus needs. Here are a few of my favorites:

The Greatest Show on Earth (DVD) by Cecil B. DeMille
The Greatest Show on Earth (videorecording) by Betty Hutton
Circus Music from The Big Top (sound recording) by Merle Evans Circus Band
Circus (videorecording) by Patrick Leigh-Bell
Circus: An Album (juvenile nonfiction book) by Linda Granfield

Please check out these great titles, and don’t forget to see the Greatest Show on Earth at the Sprint Center in Kansas City on September 12th - 16th. 

Branden P.
Liberty Branch