March 31st, 2017 by Stinkhead

I got to ring up Paulo dos Santos and talk about his role in the Ringling Bros circus, how he got his start and what the future holds. After 146 years, the Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus will be retiring from the road.

Paulo was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil. When he was 11, Paulo witnessed an acrobatics demonstration at his school and was hooked from that moment on. He wanted to do get into dance and martial arts, but as his size (4’3″) many of his classmates teased him and told him he could never do tricks and feats like the acrobats. That didn’t stop Paulo, as he got older he trained and became proficient in Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art. In 2006 he got his certification of Master in Capoeira. After winning several competitions, including first place in the National Capoeira Competition, he was spotted by Ringling Bros talent agent and snatched up immediately.

Though bittersweet, this is the final tour of the Ringling Bros Circus. I asked Paolo and his favorite aspect of being with the circus is that he has been lucky to be a small part of something that’s been around for so long, be a part of that legacy. He’ll also miss the family of the traveling company and all the traditions of that family.

We asked Paulo what was next, and currently he’s not sure. He’d love to get back to Brazil, but for now is exploring extending his Visa so he can stay in the states. Feld Entertainment has said they’re working to try and find employment for all of their circus personnel within their other productions. We asked Paulo if there was a future for him as a Monster Jam driver, but he laughed and said though not likely, it wasn’t out of the question!

In his three tours with the circus, Paulo brought a spark of energy and motivation to the company while on the road. We’ll be checking out Out of this World later this week. Paulo said to get excited about the motorcycles, the horses, and the amazing experience. Looking forward to it Paulo, and seeing where the world takes you next.

Don’t miss the last time you can ever catch the Ringling Bros circus. Click here for dates and tickets!

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