Day: November 4, 1999

Calling itself “The greatest show on earth”–as the Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey circus does–is a bold claim to make at a time when Cirque du Soleil is captivating audiences with its sophisticated artistry, and Cher is touring with a team of spunky aerialists (and a battalion of wigs). Opening-night jitters Wednesday at the Allstate Arena may have been responsible for some missed tricks, but Ringling Bros., which was founded in 1871, still manages to put on an entertaining show year after year.