ELLENTON, FL.- Five years after folding the tent, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is poised for a comeback tour next year, only without animal acts.

In a press release, the newest variation of “The Greatest Show on Earth” will include audience interaction and will “celebrate amazing talent from around the world, displaying incredible feats that push the limits of human potential.”

The company says over 1000 performers from around the world have submitted applications to take part in their planned 50 city North American tour starting in September of 2023.

Established in 1871 the original Ringling Bros. three-ring circus ran for 146 years before the final show in Uniondale, New York in 2017.

Declining ticket sales and ongoing litigation over the company’s treatment of their animals were among the reasons for the show’s closure.

Auditions for the animal-free version are ongoing, with rehearsals starting in June of next year.