Kim Cool, Editor Emeritus of “Our Town” at the Gondolier Sun, delighted attendees at our April 7th Seminar with her engaging presentation, “The History of the Ringling Circus and Museum in Sarasota and Venice.” A longtime Venice resident of over 30 years, Kim’s connection to the circus began during childhood visits to the area. She shared fascinating stories from a vibrant chapter of local history, when Sarasota (beginning in 1927–28) and later Venice (from 1960 to 1992) served as the winter homes of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Audiences in Venice had the rare treat of previewing new acts as performers trained for the upcoming season right in their backyard.
Kim highlighted legendary figures such as animal trainer Gunther Gebel-Williams, iconic clowns Emmett Kelly, Lou Jacobs, and Frosty Little, as well as the daring wire walkers, The Great Wallendas. Her presentation offered a behind-the-scenes look into this rich era, much of which is captured in her book, Circus Days in Sarasota and Venice.
