Kelly Miller Circus awes young and old alike in Decatur

Photo by Mike Eckels Zaya, a member of the Mongolian Masters of Balance, is suspended high over her partner Mendee's head, supported by her teeth, during the Kelly Miller Circus at Veterans Park in Decatur Oct. 20.
Photo by Mike Eckels Zaya, a member of the Mongolian Masters of Balance, is suspended high over her partner Mendee's head, supported by her teeth, during the Kelly Miller Circus at Veterans Park in Decatur Oct. 20.

— When John Ricketts brought the first modern circus to the United States in 1793, he brought with it a sense of wonder and a sense of excitement that still captivates children of all ages today. In much the same way as it did 214 years ago, a circus caravan rolled into Decatur before dawn on Friday.

The Kelly Miller Circus, based in Hugo, Okla., arrived at Decatur Veterans Park around 7 a.m. By 9 a.m., the big top was raised, the animals were fed and the small midway was set up and ready for the evening performances.

By 4:30 p.m., the air was filled with the smell of popcorn, and laughter abounded as the first show began.

Circus-goers were treated to an aerial motorcycle daredevil, a band of gypsy canines, GoGo the world's smarted zebra, Lamount the human volcano, Rowdy the mule, and Cindy the elephant. Each captivated the audience in its unique and special way. Each made the circus come alive.

One act that captivated the audience was the Mongolian Masters of Balance featuring Mendee and Zaya. Their graceful movements held the audience in awe.

Keeping the show moving throughout the 90-minute program were Ringmaster Rebecca Ostroff and musical director Jason Trull.

As quickly as they arrived in Decatur, they were gone. Shortly after midnight, the tent was packed up, animals bedded down in their trailers and the troupe was off to its next stop, Pryor, Okla., before shutting down for the winter.

This was the second time the Kelly Miller Circus came to Decatur. Judging from the reception received from Decatur's residents, this will not be the last.

The event was sponsored by the Decatur Chamber of Commerce, the city of Decatur, Handy Mart, Grand Savings Bank and Simmons Foods.

General News on 10/25/2017