Ringmaster (circus)

Ringmasters have become an integral part of the many circus shows and sometimes will be involved in elements of some of the acts performances.

It is traditionally the ringmaster's job to use hyperbole whenever possible while introducing the acts to enhance the expectations of the audience.

The outfit is designed to look as an 18th-century gentleman's riding habit, and often includes a whip, a relic of when the ringmaster directed the performance, not as an announcer and host, but as director of the many equestrian acts.

In the days before modern lighting equipment and amplification, most acts performed mute, accompanied only by the circus' in house brass band.

It was the ringmaster's loud voice that was necessary to cut through the noise, get the audiences attention and announce the next act.