The big show starts long before the lights go dim for the first act, as kids wander around the floor of the circus, getting their faces painted, riding ponies or in some cases even elephants, and trying out some glittering toys or accessories.

And when the show does begin in earnest. the crowd is immediately transported into the magical atmosphere that has thrilled American audiences for nearly two centuries -- the traditional three-ring circus.

It's the 69th Annual Akdar Shrine Circus in Tulsa, and it runs through Sunday at the Expo Square Pavilion.

It's a fundraiser for the Akdar Shrine, which in turn raises funds and volunteers for the network of Shrine Hospitals, which treat children who qualify without any cost at all to the parents.

Showtimes for the 2014 circus in Tulsa:

• Thursday, February 27th 6:30 pm

• Friday, February 28th 4:00 pm & 7:30 pm

• Saturday, March 1st 10:00 am, 2:00 pm, & 6:30 pm

• Sunday, March 2nd 10:00 am, 2:00 pm, & 6:30 pm

General Admission tickets at the door:  Adults $16.00, Children 12 & under: $8.00

Floor Reserved Seating: Adults $21.00, Children 12 & under: $13.00

Upper Level Reserved Seating: Adults $19.00, Children 12 & under: $11.00

For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Expo Square Box Office at 918-376-6000.