[Is it...? The truth is that Rita doesn't understand at all why the Ringmaster runs this whole stupid carnival in the first place.]

Well... partly, I guess. The Ringmaster -- that's the fae in charge here -- opens this place up to visitors on a pretty regular basis. It's possible to come here, take in the entertainment, and leave... but that's not how it goes for everyone.

Some people end up employed by the Ringmaster instead, either because they came into debt while visiting, or because they made an agreement with her.