In addition to clowns, performers include trapeze artists, acrobats, and high wire acts

The modern circus can trace its roots to ancient Rome where audiences gathered to see chariot races, equestrian shows, and staged battles.  Today's modern circuses have changed quite a bit with a mix of aerialists, clowns and theater all designed to thrill and entertain audiences. But these modern shows are not without controversy. VOA's Jeff Feuer goes behind the scenes at the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, the self described "Greatest Show on Earth," to learn how the performers try to help the communities they come to entertain.