News Summary
The iconic Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus is set to perform in Providence, providing six thrilling shows filled with world-class acts from around the globe. The circus will feature a diverse range of performers and modernized entertainment elements, aiming to captivate both longtime fans and new audiences. Tickets are available for the shows taking place at the Amica Mutual Pavilion, marking a significant return after its previous closure.
Providence, RI is set to welcome the return of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus for six thrilling performances at the Amica Mutual Pavilion from May 29 to May 31, 2026. The iconic circus, known as the “Greatest Show On Earth,” is expected to wow audiences with a spectacular array of acts featuring a cast of 65 world-class performers from 17 different countries.
The shows will take place over three days, starting with one performance on Friday, May 29, followed by three shows on Saturday, May 30, and concluding with two shows on Sunday, May 31. Tickets are already on sale, with a public ticket sale opening on Tuesday, October 28. Interested attendees can purchase tickets through Ticketmaster.com or at the venue box office.
This production is tailored to engage a modern audience, showcasing a fast-paced and energetic experience that combines music-driven entertainment, including beat drops, live drumming, and dynamic dance battles that are set to both pop hits and original songs. Noteworthy acts included in this year’s presentation are:
- The Acro-Salsa Troupe from Colombia, featuring seven members who merge acrobatics with salsa dancing.
- A world-renowned contortionist making her debut in this production.
- Acrobatic performers from China who create human pyramids on moving bicycles and perform hoop diving acts.
- The return of Bailey the Robo Pup, now with updated dance moves and an engaging persona.
The show runs for approximately two hours and will leverage advancements in technology, such as large LED screens and cameras, to enhance audience engagement and provide an immersive experience for every seat in the venue.
The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus made its previous closure in 2017 before relaunching “The Greatest Show On Earth” in 2023, aiming to attract contemporary audiences while continuing a legacy that has captivated millions worldwide over its 150-year history. Providence holds a special place in the circus’s history, having been one of the last venues for Ringling before its 2017 closure, which was marred by a serious incident in 2014 involving the injury of eight acrobats, leading to a substantial $52.5 million settlement over safety issues.
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Additional Resources
- Patch: Greatest Show on Earth Coming to Providence
- Turnto10: Ringling Bros. Circus to Return to Providence Next Year
- What’s Up Newp: Ringling Bros. Circus Returns to Providence in May 2026
- CBS News: Acrobats Settlement from Providence Rhode Island Collapse
- New York Times: Circus Acrobats Injured Settlement
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
