The Winding Road To The Center Ring

Ask a boy what he wants to be when he grows up, and you're unlikely to hear the response of "circus ringmaster." And even if a youngster is intent on stepping into the center ring, most would not know how to get started on such a career path.

That path can be rather circuitous, as it was for Tyron Stucks McFarlan Jr., who grew up a "military brat" and enlisted in the Army National Guard at age 16. He completed advanced training while attending college, and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in criminal justice. But, as McFarlan puts it, "Whatever is truly inside you is going to come out-sooner or later," and for him that "whatever" was music; in high school he'd discovered a talent for singing and performing.

After college, McFarlan ventured into musical theater, modeling and commercial work. But it was his unique combination of talent, work ethic and physical presence that made him ideal for his biggest role: Ringmaster for The Greatest Show on Earth®.

McFarlan describes his good fortune to be selected as Ringmaster as an occasion to "celebrate life" and looks forward to sharing his excitement with his daughter Nymah, who will visit him on the road throughout the show's tour.

As Ringmaster, McFarlan is considered the voice of Ringling Bros., and is excited about "vibing" with the audience and interacting with many different talents and nationalities. Some of the acts he proudly introduces to circus-goers include:

• Brian and Tina Miser (Mr. and Mrs. Human Cannonball)-A married couple that takes devotion-and detonation-to new heights.

• Taba Maluenda-Incredible feline trainer and superior tumbler; will amaze and astonish with his seven enchanting Bengal tigers.

• Clown Alley-Delivering dining disorder at the local pizzeria. Plus a basketball challenge against the Windy City Acrobats.

• Powerful Pachyderms and Paragons of Playfulness-What would the circus be without elephants? Ten-ton diva, the amazing Asia, mesmerizes all as she carefully walks over six production women.

Tyron McFarlan is a genuine American hero-a dedicated military serviceman-as well as an imposing stage presence and powerful vocalist. McFarlan takes charge of the 135th Edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, commandeering his talented troops and sending them forth to conquer the evil forces of Mundane Monday, Tedious Tuesday, Wearisome Wednesday...In other words, he and his fellow Ringling Bros. performers are Saving The Day From The EverydaySM!