Traci White Photo

Isa (right) and Del Rita (left), two Indian elephants with the Cole Bros. Circus, are washed by Louis del Morrar (left) and Antonio Perez as they make preparations for their second night in Harrisonburg on Thursday 

Coming to the Cole Brothers Circus before it actually got underway was to me so much more interesting than the show. The affection the trainers have for the animals was really sweet to witness, and young acrobats practicing under the big top without the spotlights was more spectacular. 

Wendy Aguillar, 12, practices maintaining her balance while her instructor, Adolfo Ponce, watches during early afternoon exercise for the young acrobat under the tent for Cole Bros. Circus on their second night in Harrisonburg on Thursday. 

Lamount Dayes, also known as "The Human Volcano," gives a kiss to Lawrence the camel inside Lawrence's pen.

The Ring Hostess Alissandra von Rose checks her reflection in a mirror before the Cole Bros. Circus performs under the big top.

Quinton Hinsley, 4, laughs as he watces a pair of clowns acting up at the Cole Bros. Circus during their final performance under the big top at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds.

Ringmaster Chris Conners of the Cole Bros. Circus walks out of the performer's entrance before the show at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds on Thursday.