It’s called the Promethean, a $25,000 gold plated coffin, and  it will be at the center of a funeral unlike anything anyone has seen before.

Jackson once said of his future funeral, “It’s going to be the greatest show on Earth. That’s what I want. Fireworks and everything.”

The spectacle will kick off Tuesday morning at 10 A.M.  in the Los Angeles Staples Centre, home of the LA Lakers.  Eleven thousand tickets are being handed out randomly to fans, well wishers, and gawkers, while up to a million more are expected to view the show on giant screens being erected outside the arena. 

Mourners will be treated to performances from a variety of musicians and singers, not to mention a parade of animals - including Lions, Tigers, and a team of elephants.  The elephant parade, organized by Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey circus, was already scheduled for Tuesday, but has been re-purposed for the pop star’s final goodbye.

 After the ceremony, which will be attended by stars such as Paul McCartney, Diana Ross, and the ever-present Elizabeth Taylor, Jackson’s body will be laid to rest in a private, family-only ceremony at Forest Lawn cemetery.  His interment there may only be temporary, however, as the family expects to move him to Neverland Ranch once the legal permissions are finalized.

A circus he wanted, and a circus he shall receive.

-Robert Laurie