I never played basketball with Michael Jordan. I never sang with Elvis Presley. But I had the privilege to perform in The Greatest Show On Earth, with Gunther Gebel-Williams. Before I went to Clown College, Gunther & Lou Jacobs were my circus heroes. I was thrilled to get a contract to be a clown on the Ringling Red Unit. After working with both men, they are still my heroes! Anyone can learn a lot from watching Gunther - in the show, during practice, or talking backstage (usually with a broom in his hand). His love for his animals is unending. His professionalism and work ethics are unparalleled. His generosity with his time, effort, and advice are what made it possible for me to be able to create and perform my signature act/gag with my mule, "Dixie". I had a great time recently in Madison Square Garden, in New York. I got a big hug and a nice trip down Memory Lane with Gunther. I have so many fond memories and we made some new ones. We shared our pride in Mark Oliver, with his great success. We laughed over old photos that I brought. I didn't want the day to end. I was given a chance to tell Gunther again that I never tired of two things: riding his elephants and watching him with his tigers. My favorite two things about Gunther are his playful sense of humor and his bigger-than-life superhero presence, especially while performing. Bottom line: Gunther Gebel-Williams is the coolest circus performer -- EVER!!!
Cowboy Mike Keever
,
Red Unit clown in the 1970s