by Rachel Hunter
Billy Martin’s Cole All-Star Circus wowed audiences with two shows filled with jaw-dropping acts and thrills at the Gouverneur High School, E. Barney St., in Gouverneur on Saturday, February 3. With tremendous support from the Gouverneur-area community, proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Gouverneur Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter, the Gouverneur High School National Honor Society, the GHS Key Club, and the GHS Varsity Club.
The Cole All-Star Circus was founded in 1938 by legendary showman James M. Cole. Born and raised in Penn Yan, NY, upon graduating high school, he joined the Walter L. Main Railroad Circus in 1924. Throughout his amazing tenure in show business, he managed many major touring circuses, owned and operated his own big top show, toured the nation with his famous performing elephants, and became a circus legend. The Cole All-Star Circus began as a school workshop project; Mr. Cole provided the acts, and the schools provided the rest: the art classes designed and crafted the posters, the high school band provided the music for the show, and the gym classes served as stage hands. The show became a popular tradition throughout New York State and Pennsylvania. He retired in 1987, completing his 50th tour of the show.
Billy Martin was 12 years old when he met Mr. Cole in 1972. The indoor circus performed at his hometown school in Olean, NY. His fascination with the circus evolved into a wonderful friendship with Cole, and at age 14, he began booking many schools for the circus throughout Western New York. After graduating high school in 1977, it was only logical he join the Cole Circus. He performed a juggling/balancing act, served as ringmaster, and became Mr. Cole's right-hand man. When Cole retired at the age of 80, Billy purchased the show and remains at its helm today. Together with his wife Angela, an accomplished aerialist and consummate circus performer, they continue the rich, grand legacy of the Cole All-Star Circus, performing to yet another generation. The Martins are proud of their heritage and the impeccable reputation of the Cole Circus in providing only the finest in family entertainment.
Billy Martin’s Cole All-Star Circus has been a family favorite in Gouverneur since 1988. Billy Martin’s Cole All-Star Circus also had tour dates at Harrisville Central School and Clifton-Fine Central School District this week. Visit www.billymartincircus.com to see the full list of upcoming shows throughout the North Country region.