Johnathan Lee Iverson facts for kids

Johnathan Lee Iverson, born on January 30, 1976, is an American ringmaster. A ringmaster is like the host of a circus show, introducing acts and keeping the audience excited. Johnathan Iverson made history as the first African-American ringmaster for a very famous U.S. circus, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.

Early Life and Learning

Johnathan Iverson grew up in New York City, in an area called Central Park West. He went to a special high school for music and performing arts, the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School. After high school, he studied at the Hartt School at the University of Hartford. There, he trained to become an opera singer, which means singing classical music in a powerful way.

Before his circus career, Johnathan started performing with the Boys Choir of Harlem.

His Amazing Career

Becoming a Ringmaster

In 1998, when Johnathan Iverson was just 22 years old, he joined the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. This was a big deal because he was not only the youngest ringmaster they ever had, but also the first African-American person to hold that important role.

People who saw him perform were very impressed. Ebony magazine wrote that the moment he appeared, the audience was completely focused on him. The San Francisco Examiner said he could amaze the crowd with his strong voice and superstar presence. A newspaper called the Times-Picayune described him as tall and confident, saying he could work a crowd like a "three-ring evangelist." Even famous writer Liz Smith admired him, noting his commanding presence and singing ability.

In 1999, Johnathan Iverson was named one of Barbara Walters’ 10 Most Fascinating People. His time with the circus, often called "The Greatest Show On Earth," was featured in several books. These books highlighted his groundbreaking role as an African-American pioneer.

Johnathan Iverson was part of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus from 1998 until it closed in 2017. After the circus closed, he continued his career as a ringmaster at Circus Vargas. He also became the chairman of the board for a new circus called Omnium: A Bold New Circus. He also helped start the American Circus Alliance. In 2021, he was the ringmaster for Omnium Circus's first-ever show.

Theater Performances

In 2022, Johnathan Iverson starred in a musical play called "Trav’lin: A 1930s Harlem Musical Romance." This show took place in Winter Park, Florida.

Personal Life

While working with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, Johnathan Iverson met and married a fellow performer named Priscilla. They have two children, Matthew and Lila, who also performed with the Ringling circus.