In this article, we will explore the history and evolution of the circus, highlighting the different disciplines and talents involved, while highlighting the skill and craftsmanship of the artists who have left an indelible mark on this fascinating world.
What is the circus
To the question of What is the circus? we can say that the circus, a magical and fascinating world full of amazing acrobatics, contagious laughter and intense emotions, has been a centuries-old tradition that has amazed and entertained audiences of all ages and cultures around the world. From the laughter provoked by the clowns with their antics and jokes, to the amazement generated by the tightrope walkers and trapeze artists who defy the laws of gravity, the circus offers a unique experience that combines art, skill and passion.
From its humble beginnings in traveling circuses that toured towns and cities, bringing joy and wonder to every corner, to the large and sophisticated international productions of today, the circus has constantly evolved. It has incorporated new technologies, special effects and more complex narratives, adapting to the times and the preferences of the public without losing its essence. Large companies such as Cirque du Soleil have revolutionized the traditional concept of the circus, fusing theater, music and circus arts in large-scale shows.
The circus has become a unique art form that combines diverse disciplines such as acrobatics, juggling, contortion, music, acting and dance. It has also been a reflection of cultural diversity, incorporating elements from different traditions and artistic styles from around the world. Over the years, the circus has managed to reinvent itself, keeping its magic alive and continuing its legacy as one of the purest and most universal forms of entertainment. Its ability to bring people together in a shared experience of wonder and joy is undoubtedly a fundamental part of its enduring appeal.
Origin of the circus
The origins of the circus can be traced back to ancient Rome, around the 6th century BC, when public spectacles known as "ludi circenses" began to be held. These events took place in large stadiums called "circuses," the most famous being the Circus Maximus in Rome, which could hold up to 250,000 spectators. Initially, the ludi circenses included chariot and horse races, as well as athletic competitions.
Over time, these shows expanded to include a variety of entertainment such as acrobatics, contortionism, and trained animal performances. Gladiators also became a crucial part of these events, offering combats that were extremely popular with the Roman public.
The Roman circus was not only a place of entertainment, but also a means for emperors and political figures to display their power and generosity to the people. They offered these shows for free, thus gaining the favor of the citizens. In addition, they served as a tool to keep the population distracted and avoid social unrest.
With the fall of the Roman Empire, the circus tradition declined, but the skills and arts associated with these shows survived throughout the centuries.
Thus, the modern circus has its deep roots in ancient Rome, where the foundations were laid for what would later evolve into a global and diverse spectacle.
What kind of art is the circus?
The circus is a form of scenic art which combines multiple artistic disciplines to create a show that entertains and amazes the public. It is characterized by the integration of exceptional physical skills, such as stunt, juggling and the equilibrium, where performers demonstrate strength, flexibility and coordination in impressive acts.
In addition to physical feats, the circus incorporates elements of comedy and acting through characters like the clowns, who use humor and mime to connect with the audience and provoke laughter. The music and the , They also play an important role, helping to set the mood and tell stories without words.
In circus performances, it is common to see aerial acts such as trapeze, where artists perform elegant and risky movements in the air, adding excitement and drama to the show. contortionism and the illusionism They are other disciplines that enrich the experience, showing the versatility and creativity of the artists.
The circus is considered a multidisciplinary art because it fuses various forms of artistic expression into one event. Its main goal is to create a visual and emotional experience that captivates people of all ages, offering an escape from reality and celebrating human capabilities. Although traditionally involving animal performances, many modern circuses have chosen to focus exclusively on human talent and artistic innovation.
In essence, the circus is a celebration of skill, creativity and imagination, which through different performing arts manages to connect with the public and transmit universal emotions.
circus history
With the fall of the Roman Empire, circus traditions declined, but the associated skills and arts survived throughout the centuries. In the Middle Ages, minstrels and troubadours kept the essence of the circus alive with their traveling performances, which included juggling, acrobatics and animal acts. These shows were common at fairs and markets, and although they lacked the grandeur of the Roman circuses, they maintained the spirit of public entertainment.
The modern circus began to take shape in the 1768th century. In XNUMX, Philip Astley, an English horseman, founded the first modern circus in London. Astley combined equestrian performances with other entertainment acts in a circular format, which facilitated public visibility.
Where does the word "circus" come from?
The word "circus" that we use today comes from Latin "circus", meaning "circle"Latin was the language spoken by the ancient Romans thousands of years ago.
In ancient Rome, there were places called "circus" which were large spaces in the shape of a circle or oval. There, people gathered to watch exciting spectacles, such as horse-drawn chariot races, performances, and games. The most famous of all was the Circus Maximus, a huge stadium that could accommodate thousands of spectators.
Why was it called a "circus"? Because it was circular, like a large ring or round track. The shape of the venue was very important because it allowed everyone to see what was happening in the center.
Over time, the word "circus" It spread to other languages, including Spanish, becoming "circus"Now, when we think of a circus, we imagine a big colorful tent with clowns, acrobats and animals doing tricks. But it all started a long time ago with those ancient circular places where people went to have fun in Rome.
Expansion of the circus
During the 19th century, the circus expanded throughout Europe and North America, constantly evolving. In 1871, Phineas Taylor Barnum, along with William Cameron Coup, established "PT Barnum's Grand Traveling Museum, Menagerie, Caravan & Hippodrome," which became the famous "Barnum & Bailey Circus«.
This circus was notable for its massive scale and for introducing the concept of "three rings," allowing for multiple simultaneous performances. It also featured "human freaks" and exotic acts, which, although controversial, attracted large audiences.
The 20th century brought technological innovations and changes in cultural sensibilities, which affected the circus industry. Wild animals, which had been a central part of the circus, began to be questioned for their treatment, leading to stricter regulations and the eventual elimination of these acts in many countries.
Simultaneously, new forms of circus emerged that focused more on human skills and artistic narrative. A prominent example is the Cirque du Soleil, founded in 1984 in Canada. This circus reinvented the traditional format by eliminating animals and focusing on acrobatics, dance, live music and theater. Cirque du Soleil became a global phenomenon, inspiring many other contemporary circuses to adopt similar approaches.
Today, the circus continues to evolve. Traditional circuses still exist, although with modifications to adapt to new regulations and social sensitivities. On the other hand, the new circus or contemporary circus continues to innovate, incorporating advanced technology, special effects and fusing various artistic disciplines.
The history of the circus is a rich tapestry reflecting the evolution of society and its forms of entertainment. From the imposing Roman circuses to innovative contemporary shows, the circus has demonstrated a unique ability to adapt and reinvent itself, always maintaining its essence of wonder and awe. For more information on relevant events and anniversaries in the world of the circus, please consult our Circus Calendar.
History of the Circus: Main stages
The evolution of the circus can be classified into several historical stages, which reflect changes in its forms of entertainment, organization and approach. Here is a summary of the main stages:
1. Origins (Antiquity)
- Context: The roots of the circus go back to ancient civilizations, such as the Classical rome and Ancient Greece.
- Shows:The Romans offered shows of chariot races, gladiator fights and exotic animals in places like the Circus Maximus.
- Features: Entertainment focused on physical strength, violence, and the display of skills with animals. Although the modern concept of the circus did not exist, these practices laid some groundwork.
2. Medieval Circus (Middle Ages)
- Context:During the Middle Ages, traveling shows, fairs, and minstrelsy provided entertainment throughout Europe.
- Shows: Acrobats, jugglers, musicians, acrobats and storytellers traveled from town to town.
- FeaturesAt this stage, the circus was not yet formally a unified spectacle, but these travelling artists were beginning to establish the concept of performance for masses.
3. Birth of the Modern Circus (18th Century)
- Context: In 1768, Philip Astley founded the first modern circus in England.
- Shows: It combined horse riding with acrobatics, clowns and animal acts.
- Features: The modern circus format is born, with a ring as a central stage, and performances by multiple artists in a single show become popular.
4. Golden Age of the Circus (19th Century)
- ContextThe industrial revolution facilitated the expansion of the circus as a traveling show, with large tents and equipment to transport animals and artists.
- Shows: Incorporation of exotic animals (elephants, lions), clowns, tightrope walkers, magicians and more elaborate acrobatic acts.
- Features: He is born American Circuswith PT Barnum and his "The Greatest Show on Earth", and other giants of show business, such as Ringling BrothersThe global expansion of the circus makes it a form of mass entertainment.
5. Decline and Transformation (20th Century – Second Half)
- Context:After World War II, the popularity of the traditional circus began to decline due to competition from new forms of entertainment, such as television and film.
- Shows: Despite the decline of large traditional circuses, there were still important companies such as the Ringling Bros.
- Features: The use of animals begins to decline due to growing concerns about animal welfare. Circus shows become more compact and less itinerant.
6. Contemporary Circus (Late 20th Century – Present)
- Context: The circus is undergoing an artistic transformation with the emergence of new companies that explore more theatrical and human approaches, highlighting Cirque du Soleil.
- Shows: The focus shifts towards human abilities, with less emphasis on animals and greater use of visual technologies, music and artistic narratives.
- Features: The new circus Contemporary circus is characterized by a combination of theatre, dance and acrobatics, with a more narrative and often thematic structure. At this stage, animal welfare and human rights also influence the evolution of the show.
Each of these stages reflects how the circus has evolved from a purely physical and risky spectacle to a multidisciplinary art form that mixes entertainment with a more creative and ethical approach.
Circus disciplines and talents
Furthermore, as today we can enjoy in the Historical Raluy Circus, encompasses a wide range of disciplines and talents, each of them requiring, for the circus performers, years of training and dedication. From the intrepid acrobats From gravity-defying tightrope walkers, every act in the circus requires an exceptional level of skill. The jugglers, with their impressive dexterity and coordination, keep us in awe as they handle objects in the air with grace and precision. The trapeze artists, suspended in the air, they perform turns and pirouettes that leave us breathless, demonstrating extraordinary strength and agility.
We cannot forget the clowns, who with their wit and comedic skills make us laugh out loud. His presence in the circus adds a touch of fun and joy, balancing the more intense acts with moments of comic relief.
Evolution of the circus
Over the years, the show has evolved to adapt to the changing demands of the public. Traveling circuses gave way to large productions, allowing for greater sophistication in sets, costumes and special effects. Circus companies have incorporated elements of theater, dance and music into their shows to create even more captivating experiences.
Additionally, the circus has adopted new technologies and creative concepts to stay relevant in the modern era. Some circus companies have fused circus with other art forms, such as contemporary circus which combines acrobatics with contemporary dance and physical theater, creating a unique and avant-garde experience.
The art of the circus today
If we ask ourselves What is the circus? Today, the answer is that despite changes in society and entertainment, the circus remains a fascinating and captivating art form. Every year, new generations of performers emerge with impressive skills, taking the circus to new heights of creativity and excellence. The circus remains a place where imagination comes to life and where dreams become reality.
The circus is much more than a series of amazing acts; It is a tradition rooted in the history and culture of many societies. Through its evolution, the circus has demonstrated its ability to adapt and thrill audiences of all ages. The disciplines and talents involved in the circus are a testament to the effort, dedication and passion of the artists who delight us with their unique skill and abilities.
Whether marvelling at aerial acrobatics, laughing with clowns or simply letting ourselves be carried away by the magic of the show, the circus remains an incomparable experience that connects us with our capacity for wonder and transports us to a world of emotions and wonders.
The art of the circus will endure, enchanting future generations and ensuring that this centuries-old tradition continues to inspire and fill with joy the hearts of those privileged to witness it.
World Circus Federation
La World Circus Federation (FMC) is an international non-profit organisation working to preserve and promote circus art as a unique form of cultural and artistic expression. Founded in 2008 with the support of Prince Rainier III of Monaco, the federation is based in Monte Carlo and operates under the auspices of the Monte Carlo International Circus Festival, one of the most prestigious circus events in the world.
The FMC's main mission is to defend the circus as a cultural heritage and to advocate for its global recognition. To this end, the federation collaborates with governments, cultural institutions and international organisations, seeking to ensure the sustainability of this centuries-old tradition. In addition, it promotes the inclusion of the circus on UNESCO's lists of intangible cultural heritage and works to improve the working and artistic conditions of circus professionals.
Among its most notable initiatives is the World Circus Day, held annually on the third Saturday in April, brings together artists, fans and communities from around the world to highlight the richness and diversity of circus art. The FMC also encourages research and documentation of circus history, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and learn from this tradition.
The World Circus Federation represents a bridge between the past and the future, protecting this universal art and its unique ability to inspire and excite people of all ages and cultures.
National Circus Award
The National Circus Prize is an annual award created in 1990 by the Spanish Ministry of Culture. It is awarded in recognition of "the meritorious work of a person or entity in the circus field, demonstrated preferably through a work or performance made public or presented during the year." In 1995, a prize of 5,000,000 pesetas was approved for the winner, an amount that was updated in 2010 to 30,000 euros, in accordance with the regulations governing the National Prizes of the Ministry of Culture.
2014 – Mercedes Ochoa Balmaseda, “Merche Ochoa” or Merche 8A.
2015 – The Union of Professionals and Friends of the Circus Arts (UPAAC).
2016 – Miguel Ángel Moreno, «Bolo».
2017 – Rolabola.
2018 – Consuelo Reyes.
2019 – Bidó de Nou Barris Association.
2020 – Marceline Kahn (The Eccentrics).
2021 – Manolo Alcántara.
2022 – Pepa Plana.
2023 – Producers of Smiles.
| 2013 | Tortell Armchair |
| Order by which the Prize of the year 2013 is awarded | |
| 2012 | The Trapezi Circus Fair |
| Order by which the Prize of the year 2012 is awarded | |
| 2011 | Madrid Jugglers Association |
| Order by which the 2011 National Circus Prize is awarded (PDF 130KB) | |
| 2010 | The Alvarez Brothers |
| Order by which the 2010 National Circus Prize is awarded (PDF 152KB) | |
| 2009 | Popey Family |
| Order by which the 2009 National Circus Prize is awarded (PDF 150KB) | |
| 2008 | Circus Grand Fele |
| 2007 | Francisco Tebar Honrubia – “Picaso Junior” |
| 2006 | José Antonio Ylich Muñoz – “Tony Alexis” |
| 2005 | Antonio Benjamín Papadopaulo Ruiz – «Tony Tonito» |
| 2004 | Manuel Alvarez Arriola |
| 2003 | Jesus Silva Gonzalez – «Suso Clown» |
| 2002 | José María González Cachero – “Junior” posthumously |
| 2001 | "The Quirós" (Vicente, Ángel and Roberto Quirós Domínguez) |
| 2000 | Enrique Riquelme Romero – «Enrique Romero» |
| 1999 | Antonio Papadopaulo Cowboy – «Tonito» |
| 1998 | Jose Villa del Rio – «Tonetti» |
| 1997 | Art Circus – Emilio Aragón Bermúdez “Miliki” |
| 1996 | Circus – Raluy Museum – Luis and Carlos Raluy |
| 1995 | Great World Circus – CULTESPA SL – José Maria González Villa |
| 1994 | Emilio Briatore Alegría |
| 1993 | Rogelio Andreu Laserre – «Rogelio Rivel» |
| 1992 | Maria del Pino Papadopoulos Vaquero – «Miss Mara» |
| 1991 | José Aragón Hipkins – “Little Nebuchadnezzar” |
| 1990 | Cristina Segura Gómez – «Little Golden Pine» |
The circus by country
Throughout history, several countries have played a crucial role in the evolution of modern and contemporary circus, each contributing unique elements and transforming the way this art has been perceived and developed.
England It is considered the birthplace of the modern circus. It was in 1768 when Philip Astley established the first modern circus in London, creating a format that incorporated acrobatics, horse riding and clowns within a circular ring. This model expanded rapidly and laid the foundations of the modern circus as we know it. The English influence was key to structuring the circus show and making it a global entertainment.
United States, for its part, took the circus to the level of mass spectacle in the 19th century. P.T. Barnum, together with the Ringling Brothers, transformed the circus into a gigantic entertainment industry, with exotic animals, big tops, and traveling shows that toured the country and then the world. The American circus was a pioneer in turning these presentations into authentic mass productions, with a focus on grandeur and showmanship. Despite the decline in the use of animals in recent decades due to concerns about animal welfare, the United States is still remembered as a key innovator in circus history.
En FranceThe circus has undergone a significant evolution in both its traditional and contemporary versions. During the 19th century, French cities, especially Paris, became centres of circus culture. However, it was in the 20th century when France played a decisive role in the birth of the circus. new circus, a more theatrical and artistic form that prioritizes narrative, dance and acrobatics. Companies such as the Cirque Plume y Archaos They pioneered this new approach, which would inspire many other companies around the world.
Russia Russia has also been a force in the circus world, particularly in the technical field. During Soviet times, the circus received considerable government support, and academies were established to train the most talented performers. The Moscow State Circus School is still world renowned for its rigorous training of acrobats, jugglers and trapeze artists, who are noted for their technical precision and impressive physical abilities. The circus tradition remains strong in Russia, with shows that combine physical prowess with great theatricality.
to Canada, in particular through the Cirque du SoleilCirque du Soleil has had a significant impact on contemporary circus. Founded in 1984, this Canadian company eliminated animals from its shows and focused on creating unique visual and artistic experiences, where theatre, music and acrobatics merge into a thrilling narrative. Cirque du Soleil redefined modern circus and turned it into a globally recognized art form, influencing many other companies to follow a similar approach.
Italy has also left a mark on the history of the circus, with a tradition of travelling shows dating back to the 19th century. Circus Medrano It is one of the oldest and most famous circuses in Europe, and represents Italy's rich history in the world of circus entertainment. Although Italy has historically been more traditional in its approach, in recent decades it has also begun to explore contemporary circus, with companies integrating theatre and new art forms into their performances.
Argentina, for its part, has a rich circus tradition dating back to the 19th century. Argentine traveling circuses toured the country, offering shows that combined physical skills and humor. In recent decades, Argentina has been a pioneer in the social circus, using this art as an educational and social inclusion tool. The Creole Circus is one of the most emblematic of this tradition, while companies such as The sand They have promoted contemporary circus, fusing acrobatics, theatre and dance.
En Mexico, the circus has been an integral part of popular culture since the 19th century, with numerous family circus companies and traveling shows touring the country. Traditional Mexican circuses included a mix of acrobatics, jugglers, clowns and animals, although in recent years the use of animals has declined due to new regulations. In addition, new forms of contemporary circus have emerged, such as the troupe Circus of Mind, which has focused on creating performances without animals, more focused on artistic expression.
Spain The Spanish circus has also played a relevant role in the evolution of the circus, both in its traditional version and in the new circus. Throughout history, the Spanish circus has included a strong tradition of clowns, jugglers and acrobats. However, in recent decades, Spain has been the scene of the growth of the contemporary circus, with companies like the Historical Raluy Circus, La Fura dels Baus y Circus de los Horrores, which have explored new scenic languages, mixing theatre, music and visual arts. In addition, training programmes have been developed social circus, which seek to integrate disadvantaged communities and use the circus as an educational tool.
Frequently asked questions about the circus world
Many circuses have stopped using animals in response to criticism from animal rights activists. Circuses such as Cirque du Soleil and Circus Roncalli have embraced more theatrical and acrobatic shows, while others have reduced or eliminated acts featuring animals from their programming.
There is a wide variety of artists that are part of the circus show: trapeze artists, clowns, magicians, mimes, jugglers, etc. All of them are included under the generic name of circus artists.
Circus workers are called circus performers, although each specific profession has its own name: acrobat, clown, tamer, juggler, among others. They are all part of the circus community.
The world's largest circus is called Cirque du Soleil. This Canadian performing arts company tours internationally and boasts the largest infrastructure and number of specialized artists in the world.
The world's most famous clown is probably Bozo, a very popular American television creation. However, others like Ronald McDonald and Grimaldi also enjoy international fame in the circus world.
The most terrifying clown is Pennywise, a character from Stephen King's novel It, popularized by film adaptations and known for causing panic and fear in young and adult audiences.
Circuses are itinerant, so they travel from city to city bringing their show to the entire population. That is where all the charm lies, since by traveling so much, you meet new people, gastronomy and places... one of the advantages of this type of life.
To be part of a circus, you can train in circus schools, start with local companies, or contact circuses directly to offer your skills. Dedication and versatility are key to success.
The Moscow Circus (founded in 1773) is one of the oldest circuses in the world. Circus art has a long tradition in Russia, and the Moscow State Circus has been a global reference. Other historic circuses include the Royal Circus in the United Kingdom, which was opened in the XNUMXth century.
In Spain, the largest circus traditionally recognized is the Great World Circus, famous for its size, number of artists, and variety of shows during its tours throughout the country.
The most famous Roman circus is the Circus Maximus in Rome. It was the largest in the ancient world, seating over 150.000 spectators and used primarily for chariot races and mass events.
The most feared clown in cinema is Pennywise from It, a symbol of terror due to his sinister appearance and disturbing on-screen appearances, becoming a cultural reference in horror films and series.
The world's largest circus tent is owned by Circus Krone in Germany. Its structure can accommodate more than 5.000 spectators and is renowned for its size and construction technology.
The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, known as "The Greatest Show on Earth," was one of the most iconic circuses in the U.S. Founded in 1919, it closed in 2017 due to changing public perceptions of animal use, though it announced it would return animal-free in 2023.
The first modern circus was Philip Astley's in London in 1768, known for establishing the circular model and bringing together different disciplines under a single tent, laying the foundations for the contemporary circus.
In Europe, the Krone Circus (Germany) is one of the largest and most famous, and still uses animals in some of its shows. Also notable is the Roncalli Circus (Germany), a pioneer in eliminating animals and focusing its shows on acrobatics and artistic performances.
There are three main types of clowns: the august (absent-minded and funny), the white clown (elegant and serious), and the tramp clown (sad and thoughtful), each with their own roles and characteristics in the show.
There are currently about 25 active circuses in Spain, although the number fluctuates as small companies emerge and disappear depending on the season, demand, and local economic and legal conditions.
The best-preserved Roman circus in the world is located in Mérida, Spain. The Mérida Circus retains much of its original structure and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an architectural landmark.
The world's first circus originated in London, England, in 1768, founded by Philip Astley, who introduced the modern circus format with equestrian performances and other spectacles under a circular tent.
Circuses have stopped using animals due to new laws, ethics, and social pressure. Animal welfare and the evolution of the show have led to the abandonment of practices that involve animal suffering or exploitation.
The word circus has its origins in the Latin term circus, which was the name given to the large elongated buildings with a central arena surrounded by stands in which horse races took place during Roman times.
Contemporary circuses, such as Cirque du Soleil, focus on acrobatics, theatrics, and visual effects, and generally do not use animals. In contrast, traditional circuses typically included animal acts, clowns, and trapeze shows under a large tent.
Mexico's Circo Atayde Hermanos, founded in 1888, is one of the oldest and most influential circuses in Latin America. It has toured multiple countries and is known for its combination of acrobatics, comedy acts and animal shows, although it has modernized its shows in recent years.
The circus of fear is a type of circus show that combines elements of horror, suspense, and adrenaline. It often incorporates chilling themes, sinister characters, and intense scenes to evoke emotions in the audience.
Cirque du Soleil is a contemporary circus company founded in 1984 in Canada. It is distinguished by its shows full of acrobatics, theatre and live music, without the use of animals. It has grown to become one of the most famous circuses in the world, with shows in more than 300 cities.
Cirque du Soleil has several permanent shows in Las Vegas, including "O," "Mystère," and "KÀ." These shows are renowned for their high production quality, spectacular acrobatics, and stunning visual effects, and have made Las Vegas one of the world's top circus destinations.
Circus strongmen perform displays of extreme physical strength. They lift weights, pull vehicles, or perform acrobatics to impress the audience and demonstrate skills that defy the ordinary.
There is no specific training in circus arts, but linked content is addressed in the Physical Education degree and there are specific research projects on circus. The degree in Circus Arts proposes the comprehensive training of professional artists of excellence in circus techniques.
The Beijing Circus, known for its acrobatic shows, is one of the most impressive circuses in the world. Founded in China, it has gained international fame for its precision acrobatic acts, martial arts and gymnastics, showcasing the skill and discipline of Chinese circus art.
The modern circus was actually created in England by Philip Astley (1742-1814), a former Cavalry Sergeant Major turned circus director.
Some words that are associated with Circus according to the RAE are: stadium, amphitheater, coliseum and arena. In general, they are references to historical locations and buildings dating back to ancient times.
The name circus comes from the Latin circus, meaning circle. This refers to the circular shape of the arena where the shows are held, allowing for easy visibility for all those present.
In a contemporary circus, you can see aerial acrobatics, juggling, contortionism, and performances that mix theatre, dance and live music. The focus is on physical prowess and storytelling, creating a more artistic and emotional experience compared to traditional circus.
A circus is an artistic spectacle, usually itinerant, that may include acrobats, harlequins, jesters, contortionists, tightrope walkers, escape artists, strongmen, bullet men, magicians, jugglers, mimes, monkey cyclists, clowns, puppeteers, fire eaters, sword swallowers, trapeze artists, ventriloquists, stilt walkers, etc.
The first circus owner was Philip Astley, who founded the first modern circus show, combining horsemanship, acrobatics, and other arts in a circular arena within the City of London.
The first clown in history considered as such was Joseph Grimaldi (1778-1837) in England, who modernized the character and made him a central figure in theatrical and circus shows.
In the circus, the director or owner of the company generally rules. He or she is responsible for management, organizing performances, hiring, and making key decisions for the performance.
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More information about the world of the Circus
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