Los Angeles, CA (March 18, 2019) – AXS TV, in conjunction with Feld Entertainment, takes viewers behind the scenes of the last days of America’s National Living Treasure in Ringling Bros. And Barnum & Bailey® Circus: The Final Farewell—premiering Memorial Day - Monday, May 27 at 8pE/5pP.
In this exclusive first look, Feld Entertainment Chairman & CEO Kenneth Feld, Producer and Feld Entertainment Executive Vice President Alana Feld, and the cast and crew, reflect on the circus’ place in American history, discuss the profound personal impact that the circus has had on their lives, and contemplate the deep emotional effects of the circus’ bittersweet ending. “The most difficult thing about closing the Circus was the people,” said Kenneth Feld. “They are truly the greatest people I have ever known.”
Shot in 2017, The Final Farewell provides a rare glimpse into the 146-year-old organization as it prepares for the last performances of an unprecedented run—capturing the emotional goodbyes and enduring mystique that had come to define the show throughout the years. Blending powerful interviews with rarely seen archive footage, the 90-minute documentary weaves a deeply personal portrait of the people and personalities who brought Ringling Bros. to life as they discuss their love and appreciation for The Greatest Show On Earth®. Taking an inside look at life behind the curtain, filmmakers were able to examine the undying bonds forged between performers, crew and families as well as the human-animal connection evident in the care and interaction among the animals and animal presenters. In addition to hearing these incredible stories, viewers will be able to experience the ambitious new show from its very beginning, as cameras were on hand to document the creative process from its conceptualization to its realization as a thrilling spectacle—covering everything from costume creation to the designing and perfecting of each thrill moment within the show.
“AXS TV is proud to present this important profile of the last performances of one of America’s most enduring entertainment icons,” said Evan Haiman, Vice President of Programming and Development at AXS TV. “Honest and unflinching, The Final Farewell captures the laughter, tears, and priceless memories of the people who were the heart and soul of the circus, and provides a first-hand look at the creation and realization of the imaginative tale that captivated viewers across the country during the circus’ last season. In this fitting sendoff, viewers can relive the spectacle one last time, as we celebrate the magic of The Greatest Show On Earth.”
“Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey is woven into the fabric of American culture, and its spirit continues to be infused into everything we do at Feld Entertainment,” said Alana Feld. “But on a more personal note, the people are part of our family, and of all the things that are wonderful about Ringling Bros., it is the people I will miss the most. My family and I are thrilled that The Final Farewell offers viewers the opportunity to get to know these amazing people one more time.”
Visit the Ringling Bros. YouTube page for video archives.
