Ladies and gentlemen, I now give you the Greatest Show on Earth: Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey’s the Circus!

Many of you can recall that childhood memory, when you enthusiastically listened to the master of ceremonies prior to the start of the circus show

You also can remember the excitement and joy you felt as you walked out with your parents eating the last of your popcorn.

Today, the circus show that was performed for over 140 years is no longer a pastime. But this past December the joy, excitement, and enthusiasm all returned to the big screen with the movie “The Greatest Showman.”

Phineas Taylor Barnum, more commonly known as P.T. Barnum, was one of the original founders of the circus. He and James Bailey crafted the show and eventually took it across the country. “The Greatest Showman,” released Dec. 20, 2017, focuses on the former founding member and his life.

Barnum came from a poor background but developed and crafted himself into an entrepreneur, and more importantly, an entertainer who would touch lives everywhere.

Hugh Jackman is an excellent casting choice for the circus master because of his strong build and well-groomed appearance, which persuades many viewers to listen to his idea about what circuses should be like. His charisma helps build a show that was unlike anything else during the time period.

Keep in mind, the circus was founded in the later part of the 1800s and was controversial because Barnum focused on the exotic. The movie highlights those controversial elements and demonstrates that diversity can yield some of the best entertainment while bringing a genuine smile to your face.

Overall, the film has an  astounding soundtrack. There are eleven songs in total and every one of them is good.

Keala Settle, who plays the Bearded Lady, has an uplifting voice, which is elegantly showcased in her song, “This Is Me.” The song stays true to the movie’s theme of acceptance and diversity.

There are rumors that “The Greatest Showman” might be headed to Broadway soon.

The film, while spectacular to watch, contains more musical numbers than the average film. Therefore, some may feel the film should have had more dialogue.

The choreography, music, and acting, however, were exhilarating and enjoyable to watch, allowing one to be part of the Greatest Show on Earth!