From American Idol to the big top—Jennifer Fuentes performs in Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Check out Kid Reporter Jonathan Amdur's report on his visit to the newly redesigned circus. Two clowns from the circus—Dean and Jesse—took some time to talk to our kid reporters. Read what they had to say. Learn what it's like to be an circus animal trainer. Read about a new training program that is helping kids get fit. Check out this slideshow for pictures from under the big top. Feld Entertainment

Something is different at the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Traditionally, the circus has three rings, but this year, audiences are seeing something new. Now in its 136th year, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is bringing crowds across the country one giant ring—and a fun story line to go with it.

Three rings sometimes made it difficult to take in everything that was going on. With just one ring, it is easier to follow all the action. There is even a huge video screen that helps you see the performers better.

The show opens as a bunch of animals and actors come out from a "portal" and start to perform. Then the story begins. Jennifer Fuentes, one of the ringmasters, calls upon one lucky family that has always dreamed of being in the circus to actually come join the circus. The "lucky" family members—who are actually circus performers—then have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams. The dad is made ringmaster, the mom becomes an acrobat, and the daughter is transformed into a dancer. The little boy in the family, though, can't decide what he wants to be.

"I'm too small, I can't do any of those things," he says. Fuentes helps the little boy travel through all the different acts, using his imagination until he discovers what it is he wants to do.

From Idol to the Big Ring

Jennifer Fuentes, the show's ringmaster and songstress, is a talented young woman. Formerly a contestant on the second season of American Idol, she has wanted to become a star since she was a little girl. She has been performing with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus for two years now, successfully working at what she loves.