The 28th Annual Sarasota Ring of Fame Induction Ceremony convenes this Sunday, bestowing honors and recognition to those deemed deserving and enshrining them in Sarasota’ proud and shared circus history, following a Saturday panel discussion with inductees or their representatives, Ring of Fame board members and past inductees.

“It’s a permanent monument to people who’ve made incredible contributions to the world of circus,” said Brian Liddicoat, coordinator of the 2015 Ring of Fame Induction Ceremony, standing in for Ring of Fame founder and president Floyd Kruger, who passed in 2014. “This is a way of honoring the past by preserving it for the future.”

Induction nominees are submitted by the Ring of Fame Board of Directors, who decide on 8-10 possibilities and dispense ballots to former inductees for voting. With Chucko the Clown as master of ceremonies, this year’s international inductees include the Del Moral Troupe, recognized for originating perch-pole balancing, circus historian Fred D. Pfening, Jr., famed trapezist Miguel Vasquez, animal trainer and trapezist Jaqueline Zerbini and H.S.H Prince Rainier of Monaco, creator of the Circus Festival of Monte Carlo. Induction attendees will hear a performance from the Sarasota Circus Band, statements from the inductees and representatives, and witness the following plaque unveiling at St. Armands Circle. But for a more personal experience, Liddicoat recommends fans come out for the Saturday morning panel discussion.

“This is a chance for fans and anyone interested to meet these people, because at the ceremony on Sunday, it's almost impossible,” said Liddicoat. “It’s a very good opportunity for a meet-and-greet.”

Now in its 28th year, Liddicoat said the Ring of Fame is just as important today, if not moreso. Circus is still very much alive, as is its fanbase, and he sees no signs of that changing. This year's inductees bring the Ring of Fame total to 120 members. “We’re already getting suggestions for next year.”

The panel discussion takes place on Jan. 10 at 9:30am in the Sailor Circus Arena. The induction ceremony takes place on Jan. 11 at 2pm at St. Armands Circle. The Sarasota Circus Band plays beforehand at 1:30pm.

Pictured: Miguel Vazquez filming "The Last Great Circus Flyer" in 2009. Credit: Photograph by Philip Weyland, courtesy of "The Last Great Circus Flyer."