Sarasota, Florida – August 10, 2024. The Circus Ring of Fame Foundation^® announced today the eleven (11) finalists for the class of 2024 induction. Voting to select three (3) Circus Ring of Fame inductees will begin immediately and close on September 2, 2024. The induction awards show will take place February 8, 2025.

“This year the nominating committee was very thorough in their deliberations,” said Bill Powell, chair of the foundation. “We believe the candidates are all worthy of consideration, but only three will be the deserving inductees representing the highest of achievement in circus arts and culture”, Powell noted.

Voting is now open to those associated with the global circus arts industry through the Circus Ring of Fame website under the Vote” section at: www.circusringoffame.org

The Circus Ring of Fame top eleven nominees are:

1. Vazquez Family – In 1969, brothers Jose and Rafael Vazquez debuted their small family circus in Mexico as Circus Hermanos Vazquez. After parting ways in 1971, Jose continued with his family as performers and staff to grow the show becoming one of the premier circuses in Mexico and eventually expanding their reach to the USA and Latin America. Circus Vazquez has toured the USA for nearly 30 years to capacity crowds. In 2021, they rebranded the show Circus Vazquez and added the innovative Flip Circus to their family of brands.
2. Performing Animal Partners – Historically, starting in the 18th century, the circus has almost always included animals, to the extent they become the partners of their human caretakers. This nomination honors collectively the thousands of animals who have brought joy and wonder to millions, whether in the rings, on stages or in the menagerie
3. CABALLERO FAMILY- The Caballero family’s unparalleled achievements in trapeze artistry, including the completion of the Quadruple Somersault by five family members and the Triple Somersault by three female members, solidify their place as one of the most distinguished circus families in history.On May 20, 1985, Ruben Caballero II became the second person in the world to complete the quadruple somersault on the flying trapeze. This feat was followed by historic performances at prestigious venues, including the International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo and the Royal Carre Theater in Amsterdam.Recently, Ruben Caballero III made history by becoming the youngest trapeze artist to catch a quad. In 2023, the family achieved a world record by completing three Quadruple Somersaults in a single performance at the International Circus Festival in Girona, earning the Golden Elephant award.
4. BERNARD PAUL- Starting with a short-lived partnership in 1976, Circus Roncalli had a shaky beginning. However, in 1980 Herr Paul went on to create what has become the jewel of Germany’s touring circuses, appearing as a clown for many years in his show. He has featured the most outstanding circus artists over the years in stunning and ground-breaking theatrical productions. He is an artist in the sense that he personally crafts the unique styling of each show using state of the art theatrical technology to create unique experiences for audiences of Circus Roncalli.After decades of success in Europe Bernard Paul brought his show to the USA in a combined production with Big Apple Circus in 2023.
5. ROLAND AND INGRID KAISER – Roland Kaiser was a German-born circus artist and show producer who left an indelible mark on the global circus industry. Born in 1933, Roland began his career at a young age, making his debut in 1946 with the Ringling Bros. circus as a teeterboard artist. Over the next several decades, he expanded his skills and influence within the industry, taking on roles such as concession manager and, eventually, show owner. In 1990, he, alongside his wife Ingrid, took the helm of Circus Vargas, leading it to new heights of success and acclaim.Ingrid Osmani Kaiser, born in the Netherlands in 1946, was a third-generation circus performer who brought a wealth of experience and talent to the family business. She began her career in 1954 at Circus Theater Carre in Amsterdam, where she excelled as an acrobat and juggler. Ingrid’s talents were not confined to the ring; she was also a gifted show producer and owner, playing a crucial role in the success of Circus Vargas from 1990 onwards. Ingrid’s performances and productions were featured in various prestigious venues, including the Le Château Champlain in Montreal and the Flamingo Casino in Las Vegas.Together, Roland and Ingrid Kaiser were a powerhouse duo in the circus world, known for their innovative contributions and dedication to the art. Their purchase and management of Circus Vargas is considered their greatest achievement, transforming it into a major force in the circus industry. Roland’s early work with the Ringling Bros. and Ingrid’s long-standing career in various prominent circuses laid a strong foundation for their later success as show producers. They were highly regarded within the circus community, with a reputation that spanned across North America, Europe, and beyond.The Kaisers’ impact on the circus arts industry was profound, not only through their performances and productions but also in their mentoring of younger generations and involvement in community service. Roland, until his passing in 2020, and Ingrid, who continues to live in Sarasota, Florida, were recognized as icons in the circus world, earning numerous accolades for their contributions to the craft. Their legacy continues to inspire and shape the future of circus arts.
6. ELVIN BALE – Elvin Bale’s career spans over six decades with significant contributions to the entertainment and circus industries. He headlined with Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus as “The World’s Greatest Daredevil,” earning international acclaim by performing for Pope John Paul II and several U.S. Presidents.

   Bale’s accolades include the Gold Clown and Silver Clown from Prince Rainier’s Monte Carlo Circus Festival. Elvin’s broad media presence includes features in Time Magazine and People Magazine, and numerous television appearances.

   A versatile performer, Bale starred in European circuses such as Circus Americano and Circus Sarrasani, performing death-defying stunts. He was the featured star of Ringling Brothers Blue Unit and was known for his spectacular single trapeze artistry featuring a forward dive heel catch.

   Elvin also performed on the sky cycle, wheel of steel and human cannonball. His achievements earned him awards like the Circus Oscar in Madrid and recognition as a top circus daredevil in books like “The American Circus” and “Under the Big Top.” His television appearances span numerous high-profile programs, showcasing his wide-reaching impact on the circus arts.

7. SACHA AND SARA HOUCKE –  Sacha Houcke, born in Paris, France, in 1951, is a distinguished circus artist renowned for his exceptional skills in equestrianism and animal training. Growing up in a renowned circus family, with his father and uncle deeply involved in the industry, Sacha was exposed to the circus world from an early age. He honed his skills in dressage and animal training at the Knie Circus, under the mentorship of his father and Fredie Knie Sr. Despite initial resistance from his family, Sacha pursued a career in the circus, performing with a Cossack troop and later working with renowned European circuses such as Circus Knie, Circus Barum, and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. His notable achievements include training and presenting a diverse array of animals, including elephants and zebras, and making significant contributions to various European festivals and gala events. Sara Houcke, born in 1977 and the daughter of Sacha Houcke, has carved her own remarkable path in the circus world as a celebrated animal tamer, often referred to as “The Tiger Whisperer.” Raised in a family with a deep circus heritage, Sara began her career at a young age, performing as a child clown and later as a gymnastics performer. Her professional journey began in Germany, where she initially worked with animals before joining the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in 1999. At Ringling Bros., Sara distinguished herself as a talented zebra and tiger trainer, earning recognition for her gentle and innovative approach with the animals, which contrasted with traditional methods.Sara’s unique training techniques, characterized by positive reinforcement and quiet commands, earned her widespread acclaim and media attention. Her work with tigers, featuring hand-feeding and non-traditional performance elements, elevated her to top billing at Ringling Bros., a status not seen since the days of Gunther Gebel-Williams. The impact of her work was also recognized through the naming of an elephant, born in April 2002, after her at the Ringling Bros. Center for Elephant Conservation. After leaving Ringling Bros., Sara continued her career with the Grand Cirque de Saint Petersburg, where she has been a key performer and caretaker of the circus’s animal menagerie.Together, Sacha and Sara Houcke represent a remarkable legacy in the circus world, combining traditional circus skills with innovative approaches to animal training. Their contributions have not only showcased their extraordinary talents but also influenced modern practices in the circus industry. The Houcke family’s enduring impact on circus performance and animal care continues to be celebrated through their exceptional achievements and ongoing influence.
8. The Enis Togni Family –  The Enis Togni Family represents six generations of Italy’s largest circus dynasty and one of Europe’s most influential circus families of artists, trainers, and innovators.  Known for their affinity for horses, the Enis Togni Family has enthralled throngs of circusgoers throughout Europe, Great Britain, and the United States. Their unique “Togni style” showmanship and exemplary productions have set the highest performance standards for more than 70 years.  Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s 120th Edition featured the family’s “American Circus” performers headlined by Flavio Togni who presented horses, elephants, and a baby rhinoceros. THE ENIS TOGNI FAMILY – believes that honors bestowed on any member of the family reflect the collective work of every member of the family including aunts, uncles, cousins, and family friends. Indeed, the Enis Togni Family is one of the most highly decorated circus families in Europe. Among their most prestigious awards and accolades are Clown d’Or and Clown d’Argent awards awarded to Flavio Togni at the Monte-Carlo festival, making him the most highly awarded circus performer in the festival’s history. Adriana and Sara Togni won a Junior d’Or in the 2016 Next Generation Festival in Monte-Carlo, and in 2023 Bruno Togni won a Clown d’Argent with his tiger act, and in 2024 Flavio Togni was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Fédération Mondiale du Cirque based in Monte-Carlo.Historically, the Enis Togni Family has been a leader in the greater Circus community.  When H.R.H Prince Rainier III of Monaco wanted to create a premiere international circus festival, he turned to the Enis Togni Family for assistance who, in turn, furnished their chapiteau, equipment and rigging, seating, lighting, sound system, etc., to launch the first Festival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo in 1973. For the next 12 years, the Enis Togni Family provided management, technical, and performance directors for what is today the world’s most prestigious circus festival.  To ensure the future of circus arts in Italy, Enis Togni and Egidio Palmiri, President of the Italian Circus Association, established the Accademia d’Arte Circense in Verona, Italy as an elite circus training center located on the grounds of the Togni family’s Winter Quarters.   In 1996 it was the Enis Togni Family and crew who erected the first, and to date only, circus chapiteau in Moscow’s Red Square. The innovative, and highly technical, 6-pointed canvas-covered mega chapiteau, conceptualized and designed by Enis Togni, was built with no poles inside.  It changed the way typical circus Big Top tents are built.  Today it houses the Enis Togni Family’s touring circus.
9.  MOIRA ORFEI –  Moira Orfei (born Miranda Orfei, 1931-2015) was an Italian pop-culture icon and a renowned figure in the circus world. She hailed from Italy’s most famous circus family and could rival any Italian music or movie legend in fame. Her long movie career, which coincided with the golden age of Italian cinema, contributed significantly to her reputation. She was the only circus owner who successfully used posters featuring only her headshot and first name to advertise her circus for forty years, a testament to her widespread popularity and the high quality of her circus.Born in Codriopo, Italy, Moira was trained in all basic circus disciplines from a young age. In 1960, she began a prolific movie career without leaving the circus, appearing in nearly forty films, including popular Italian comedies and mythological-themed international hits. In 1961, she married acrobat Walter Nones, and together they formed a circus company that soon became renowned for its elegance and high-quality acts. Their Circo Moira Orfei quickly garnered attention and acclaim, establishing itself as a major player in the circus industry.

   In 1969, Moira and Walter launched Circo sul Ghiaccio (“Circus on Ice”), an elaborate show featuring both a circus ring and a skating rink, with intricate set changes and an international cast of stars. Moira’s legendary elephant presentations and Walter’s expertise as a lion and tiger trainer solidified their status in the circus world. They expanded their productions in the 1980s, securing exclusive rights to Italian tours of the Moscow Circus and Holiday On Ice. Their shows made Moira immensely popular across Mediterranean countries.

   Moira remained a beloved cultural icon, appearing in TV shows and even inspiring a novel. She passed away in her sleep on November 15, 2015, leaving behind a legacy as a respected and celebrated circus queen. Her funeral was a grand affair, befitting her status, attended by thousands and marked by a hearse drawn by white Lipizzaners.

   10.  MR. HENK van der MEIJDEN –  Henk van der Meijden, born in The Hague, the Netherlands, in 1937, is a prominent figure in the circus arts, renowned for his role as president of Stardust Circus International.Van der Meijden first ventured into the circus world in 1971, presenting the Russian State Circus with star clown Oleg Popov at the Ahoy-Hall in Rotterdam. This debut marked the beginning of numerous successful circus productions throughout the Netherlands and Europe, establishing van der Meijden as a significant producer in the industry.

   Van der Meijden’s notable achievements include founding and sustaining the Wereldkerstcircus at the Royal Theatre Carré in Amsterdam since 1985, which has become one of the most esteemed venues for circus artists worldwide. Additionally, he established the Weltweihnachtscircus in Stuttgart in 1993, now recognized as the largest Christmas circus in Germany. His collaborations with the Great Chinese State Circus and various other international productions have introduced high-quality circus performances to millions of Europeans, elevating the art form to be on par with other performing arts like ballet and theatre.

   Beyond his production accomplishments, van der Meijden has made significant contributions to the circus community through charitable efforts and mentoring. Each year, the proceeds from the opening night of the Weltweihnachtscircus Stuttgart are donated to the Olgäle Stiftung, a children’s hospital.

   In recognition of his contributions, he received the “Circus Ambassador Award” from the Fédération Mondiale du Cirque in 2023.

   Henk van der Meijden’s extensive list of honors includes the 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Musical Awards Gala in the Netherlands, the 2014 Oscar Carré Trophy, and the 2022 Knight in the Order of Oranje-Nassau.

   11. FRANCO DRAGONE –  Franco Dragone, born on December 12, 1952, in Cairano, Italy, was an iconic theatre director known for his innovative approach to live entertainment.Dragone’s career took a significant turn in the 1980s when he moved to Montreal, Canada. There, he began a transformative collaboration with Cirque du Soleil, a then-nascent company founded by Guy Laliberté. From 1985 to 1998, Dragone directed many of Cirque du Soleil’s most acclaimed productions, including “Nouvelle Expérience,” “Saltimbanco,” and “Mystère.” His unique blend of theatre, dance, and circus arts, combined with his visionary use of aquatic stages, revolutionized the world of contemporary circus and brought Cirque du Soleil international acclaim. His direction was pivotal in defining the company’s signature style and expanding its global influence.

   In 2000, Dragone parted ways with Cirque du Soleil to establish his own company, the Franco Dragone Entertainment Group, later known simply as Dragone. Based in La Louvière, the company quickly became renowned for its large-scale, imaginative productions. One of Dragone’s most notable projects was “A New Day…,” a Las Vegas residency show featuring Céline Dion, which became the highest-grossing residency of its time. Other significant works included “Le Rêve” at Wynn Las Vegas and “The House of Dancing Water” in Macau, which showcased Dragone’s signature aquatic stages and solidified his reputation as a master of grand, immersive theatre experiences.

   Throughout his illustrious career, Franco Dragone’s contributions to the arts were widely recognized. He received numerous accolades, including an honorary doctorate from the University of Antwerp in 2012 for his innovative approach to theatre. Despite facing legal challenges towards the end of his life, Dragone was posthumously exonerated of all charges related to fiscal fraud. His legacy endures through the breathtaking spectacles he created and the millions of people worldwide who were captivated by his visionary artistry. Dragone passed away on September 30, 2022, in Cairo, Egypt, leaving behind a transformative legacy in the world of live entertainment.