Under the big top: Cole Bros. Circus comes to ILM

The Cole Brothers Circus has been wowing audiences for 125 years. Ringmaster Chris Connors said the circus is a timeless tradition that has weathered the toughest of times.

“Back in the depression, while everybody was on food lines and there was no money, the circus was the greatest entertainment. It was the escape. We have seen that again with the recession. The big top is magical, if you've never been to a circus under the tent. There's something thrilling and chilling about it. It's the smell, the scents, the look. And it's for children of all ages. It's rated ‘G’ for children of all ages. Funny clowns, pretty girls, happy animals, daredevils, motorcycles in the globe, the high wire. It's non-stop excitement here at the circus. I think the whole atmosphere of the circus everybody likes. They do love the animals, and we have the elephants. We have three big elephants, and we have camels. We have four of the funniest guys working in American circus today. Ok. Three of the funniest guys, 'cause this guy I don't know about. But anyway... Um. And I think the kids love the clowns. They love the animals. They like anything. My view on the circus as a ringmaster and performance director, the american circus goes quick and something exciting at all times. So it takes us a long time to get the show perfect. We've been on the road now for just two weeks. We have a great show. Brand new. Something new and different. And we have fun with it.”