The Greatest Show on Earth

Aug 1

By Ed Busch

While working in the archives a few weeks back, I came across a scrapbook of photographs labeled “The Greatest Show on Earth” and dated 1987. In 1987, Rev. Bob Lehman was UU Lansing’s interim minister. The December 22, 1986, Liberal Express newsletter announced tryouts for “The Greatest Show on Earth” to be held on January 4, 1987. They were also seeking a music director for the show.

P. T. Barnum first started using the phrase “The Greatest Show on Earth” in his traveling shows around 1870. It was called this because it “combined all the elements of museum, menagerie, variety performance, concert hall, and circus."

"The Greatest Show on Earth" was also a 1952 American drama film produced and directed by Cecil B. DeMille about a railroad circus. It won the Best Picture award in 1953. The film featured actors such as Betty Hutton, Cornel Wilde, Charlton Heston, James Stewart, Dorothy Lamour, and Gloria Grahame.

A television show with the same title ran for one season from 1963 to 1964, starring Jack Palance.

An invitation found in the archives has this on its front: “You are invited to the Opening of the New Assembly Hall of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Greater Lansing for The Pledge Drive Dinner and Show ‘P.T. Barnum’s U-U Circus’.” This was performed on October 22, 1983. Also found in the archives is a copy of the program for the show, which includes the names of all involved in the production. The play was written by Rev. Denise Tracy.

My research has not determined whether the performance was based on the film, or the more recent pledge drive show performed in 1984.

The January 5 newsletter said they had a great turnout for tryouts, with about 40 children who auditioned and received their parts. “Everyone involved seems very eager and I’m (Susan Hollow, RE Director) looking forward to the next nine weeks of rehearsals and the play production.”

The January 12 newsletter mentions that all kids with speaking parts should know all their lines by February 1.

The January 26 newsletter describes the play as an allegory. “We are hoping that the kids involved will learn more about parents, kids, and life through the symbolic clowns, animals, daredevils, etc. in the play. Through the production of the play, many dimensions of a child are brought together. Each individual becomes part of a whole community and their self-assurance grows. Negative feelings and behavior may be acted out in a constructive way. Responsibility and self-discipline are fostered, and the joy and pride of accomplishment may be achieved, not only by the children but by everyone involved.”

The February 23 and March 2 newsletters announce the performance on March 8. “Come one, come all! This is the Sunday you’ve been waiting for! Witness the culmination of the winter curriculum for our church’s children and youth. It is with much hard work, patience, and pride that these kids offer us a new look at life, from a ‘ringside seat.’ Enjoy this special performance with us, and stay for the All-Congregation Celebration which will take place in the Fireplace Room after the play.” The February 23 newsletter also listed out the remaining practices for lions, tigers, and horses group, animal trainers, daredevils and clowns, and the MC. The March 2 newsletter also urges everyone to turn out for the performance “and cheer on those talented, brave, excited, nervous kids.”

The March 9 newsletter describes the play as a big success! The March 9 newsletter also mentions a video tape which I’m trying to track down.

I hope you enjoyed this journey back to 1987. If you can identify any of the performers, please let me know. And if you have ideas for a blog, please let me know at uucgl.archives@gmail.com. I’m still in the summer traveling mode so there will be a break in my blog publications.

Sources:

Unitarian Universalist Church of Greater Lansing, Lansing Liberal, (1986-1987), UUCGL Records (C4), Publications-Newsletter, UU Lansing Archives, Lansing, Michigan.