ELLENTON, Fla. (AP) — The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus has its first woman ringmaster.

Feld Entertainment Inc. is the parent company of the Florida-based circus. The company said in a statement Wednesday that Michelle Wilson will be the first-ever woman ringmaster in its 146-year history.

Wilson starts her new role next month and her first performance will be in her hometown of Orlando, Florida, during “Circus Xtreme” show.

She will become the 39th ringmaster in Ringling Bros.’ history.

Wilson has a professional background in theater and singing.

A ringmaster typically introduces each act in the circus.