Sunday Stuff
2/1/26
On Sundays, we talk arts & leisure!
But first, some business:
Next Stop: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Venue: Fring Cultural Arts Center
Thurs, February 5, 2026, 8:00 pm.
Fri, February 6, 2026, 8:00 pm.
Sat, February 7, 2026, 2:00 & 8:00 pm.
Sun, February 8, 2026, 2:00 pm.
Come see us live and in-person!
Bruce Springsteen, Wild Billy’s Circus Story:
“And now the elephants dance real funky,
And the band plays like a jungle fire,
And circus town's on the live wire … ”
Released in 1973 and loaded with 70’s griminess, this song is an outlier in Springsteen’s catalog. Not what you’d expect from The Boss. And that’s half the fun!
It’s the tale of a scuzzy circus on the road. (Sidenote: I’ve worked in worse.) The performers and stagehands feel broken, almost sinister.
Or are they? Whenever the mood leans too dark and restless, a goofy tuba or accordion appears, making you wonder just what’s going on.
Is it a great song? Bruce has other melodies of more acclaim.
But the grindhouse aesthetic is strong, and the low-rent characters ring true, making it a memorable if imperfect composition.
“All aboard, Nebraska’s our next stop!”
(Note: Today we wouldn’t use outdated terms like “Fat Lady” or “midget.” The 70’s were a different time. Our Zaboni Circus prioritizes respect and inclusion for all. Mr. Springsteen has proven quite honorable on both counts.)
“Hey, let me ask you, how’s your tent situation?? I’ve got a Big Top 8-piece assembly unit, industrial grade, not the consumer stuff. Or if you need replacement flaps done on spec, let us know. Always competitive in price and Number One in service.”
— Ray Magistrone, Ray’s Discount Tents, Newark, NJ
Dear Ray’s Discount Tents in Newark, NJ
I have forwarded your question to Günter Borst, our Tent Master. Perhaps you might join our list of vendors!
However, this is the wrong venue to conduct such business. As I’ve stressed repeatedly, we are utilizing this forum for specific questions to members of our talented company.
Kindly put the performer’s name in the subject line and construct an intelligent question based on the clearly outlined guidelines (which literally have but one rule).
Send your well-considered query (or any general advice inquiries) to questions@ringmasterrex.com.
As tomorrow is February 2nd, we’ll close up shop for today with this cartoon from Spud Comics.
Have a great week! May you always wander toward the wonder.
