Stravinsky's Circus Polka for Orchestra, composed in 1942, was originally created for a ballet featuring elephants from the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Commissioned by circus impresario George Balanchine, the piece humorously paired Stravinsky's modernist style with the playful imagery of dancing elephants, blending high art with popular entertainment.

The music is lively and unpredictable, marked by sharp rhythms, dynamic contrasts, and a sense of parody. Stravinsky includes a whimsical nod to Schubert's Marche Militaire, cleverly distorted with his signature rhythmic innovations. Despite its brevity, the work captures Stravinsky's wit and technical brilliance.

Now frequently performed as an orchestral piece, Circus Polka continues to delight audiences with its quirky charm. It remains a testament to Stravinsky's creativity and his ability to find inspiration in unconventional projects, turning a circus commission into a lasting artistic work.