Big Apple Circus files for Chapter 11

NEW YORK (AP) — The artsy, one-ring Big Apple Circus is filing for bankruptcy protection after four decades of entertaining the world.

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

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

Big Apple canceled its 2016-2017 season in July. 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.

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.