You are there even before dawn to watch as the circus
trucks roll in and the 
roustabouts and elephants set about
raising one of the largest
canvas shelters ever erected
by man. In the traditional
method that has been used for
generations in tours around
the country, see close-up what has always been the greatest
free .show on earth: the raising of the Big Top. 
With just
ropes, pulleys, and the skill
of elephants and trainers,
the mighty canvas is hoisted
overhead--high and strong
enough to safely support the
dazzling feats of flying trapeze artists and to shelter the
crowds who come to marvel at their daring. By early
afternoon the stakes will be driven, the grandstand seats
and rigging set, and the musical balloon, popcorn and
cotton candy concessions will be opening for the first
show.
Filmed in the last year
before the canvas was
changed to plastic and
the raising done with
mechanized winches,
this authentic
documentary captures the true form of the circus as it has
inspired children of all ages in home towns across
America.
