Kelly-Miller Circus

The Arthur Area Association of Commerce is happy to once again sponsor the Kelly-Miller Circus.  There will be two shows held at the old football field next to the Arthur High School.  Click here for dates and times


Begun 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.

From 1984 through 2006, David Rawls, president and third generation circus performer directed Kelly-Miller Circus. In 2007, another exciting chapter in its history began when he passed the reins to John Ringling North II. Mr. 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. “I intend to maintain the excellent standards established by David Rawls and his family, and add some new features to the show”, John said following the hand-over.

The show travels on a fleet of 25 vehicles and requires an area of some 90,000 square feet to set up on. The circus big top, imported from Italy, has a seating capacity of 1500 and is made of waterproof vinyl. The tent is 120' by 130' and 40’ 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 elephants pull the big top into the air to the very moment when the king pole races to the ground at the end of the day, you the public are invited to come and be a part of the magic of "Circus Day" as it has been experienced for over 200 years!