DECATUR -- Two years ago, the circus rolled through Decatur, taking people back to the times of circus trains, famous clowns such as Emmett Kelly and lots of exotic animals. That same circus, sponsored by the Decatur Chamber of Commerce, returns to Decatur Oct. 20 at Veterans Park for two big shows.
Started in 1938 by Obert Miller and his sons, Kelly and Dory, the Al G. Kelly Miller Brothers Circus, now known simply as Kelly Miller, has entertained millions of American and Canadian citizens while establishing itself in the fabric and history of the American tented circus.
The Miller family members devoted their lives to their circus and, through talent and hard work, built it into America's second largest big top show. They introduced hundreds of new circus artists to the American public and countless innovations in circus operation. From the very beginning, they insisted that their circus maintain high standards and be welcomed back to communities year after year.
From 1984 through 2006, David Rawls, president and third-generation circus performer and manager, directed the Kelly Miller Circus. In 2007, another exciting chapter in its history began when the show was purchased by John Ringling North II. North's great uncles were the famous Ringling Brothers, his grandmother, their only sister. Born into this most famous of circus families, John grew up on the "Greatest Show on Earth," learning circus operation from his father, Henry Ringling North, and uncle, John Ringling North. He is dedicated to the circus, always seeking ways to improve it. North can be seen at most performances watching the show with a critical eye.
The circus travels on a fleet of 36 vehicles and requires an area of 350 by 350 feet to set up. The colorful circus big top has a seating capacity of 1,100 and is made of waterproof vinyl. The tent is 120 by 120 feet, is 40-feet high and is supported by more than a quarter of a mile of heavy gauge aluminum tubing, as well as several miles of rope, steel cable, and chain.
The Kelly Miller Circus has gathered a galaxy of stars from many nations, as well as an exotic display of animals, enhanced them with beautiful theatrical lighting and lively circus music for a performance to warm the hearts of young and old alike.
From the early morning hours, when the big top is raised into the air, to the very moment when the king pole races to the ground at the end of the day, the public is invited to come and be a part of the magic of "Circus Day" as it has been experienced for more than 200 years!
In 2015, the Kelly Miller circus performed two sold-out shows at Veterans Park. The circus returns once again for two big shows, one at 4:30 p.m. and the other at 7:30 p.m. This will be the last year the elephants will be on tour with the troupe, so plan on coming to Veterans Park Oct. 20 to see the many animals and acts this circus has to offer.
Guest ringmaster for this year's performances will be Mike Eckels, Westside Eagle Observer reporter and Decatur Historical Committee chairman.
For ticket information, call 479-752-3912.
General News on 10/18/2017