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Ringling Bros. melds circus magic, myths in new show

Mythological creatures - yes, even a "unicorn" - will join more traditional circus animals in the center ring when Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents "Legends" in Rosemont and Chicago.

The newest edition of the circus starts Thursday, Nov. 6, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 16, at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont. The show then pulls up stakes and moves to the United Center in Chicago for performances from Wednesday, Nov. 19, through Sunday, Nov. 30.

"Legends" melds circus magic and myth, showcasing creatures such as Pegasus, the winged stallion from Greek mythology, a unicorn and a Woolly Mammoth, said Ringling Bros. producer Nicole Feld. Creating those creatures surely put the costume crew to the test.

"This show really plays upon legends from mythology, as well as real-life living legends," Feld said.

The story focuses on Paulo the Legend Seeker, who is guided by ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson on a journey to find living legends.

The production features performers from 25 countries, including the Torres Family motorcycle daredevils and the Riders of the Wind Cossak Horsemen.

From the animal kingdom, the circus spotlights Alexander Lacey and his big cats, as well as Asian elephants, European donkeys, South American llamas and rescue dogs from the U.S.

One hour before each performance, audience members are invited to the arena floor for a free preshow to see human and animal stars up-close.

"When can you say that you are 25 feet from an elephant?" Feld said.

Ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson stars in “Legends,” the newest edition of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus. courtesy of Motion PR
The Torres Family races motorcycles in the Globe of Steel the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus, coming to Rosemont and Chicago this month. Courtesy of Motion PR
Clowns will be part of the big top fun, as Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents “Legends.” Courtesy of Motion PR
Ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson, right, guides Paulo dos Santos, as Paulo the Legend Seeker, on a quest for living legends in Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey's “Legends.” Courtesy of Motion PR

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey's 'Legends'

When: Thursday, Nov. 6, through Sunday, Nov. 16, at the Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont, and Wednesday, Nov. 19, through Sunday, Nov. 30, at the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago

Tickets: Tickets start at $15. (800) 745-3000,

ticketmaster.com or

ringling.com or at the Allstate Arena or United Center box offices. The all-access preshow is free for all paid ticketholders.

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