Big Apple Circus files for bankruptcy protection, seeks sale

The artsy, one-ring Big Apple Circus is filing for bankruptcy protection after four decades of entertaining the world.

Circus officials say the troupe, which set up each year at Manhattan's Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, has run out of money.

In its Chapter 11 filing, the circus says its debts amount to $8.3 million, against assets of $3.8 million.

In July, Big Apple canceled its 2016-2017 season. However, the company is still seeking financial support or someone interested in buying the circus.

At its peak, Big Apple staged more than 300 shows. It also ran programs for blind, deaf and autistic children that are expected to keep operating with nonprofit funds.