Circus Performer

What is a circus performer?

A circus performer is someone who entertains audiences by performing various acts in a circus. They showcase their skills, talent, and physical abilities to entertain and captivate the audience.

What does a circus performer do?

Usually, a circus performer does the following:

• Practice and perfect their acts, such as acrobatics, juggling, aerial skills, tightrope walking, or clowning.
• Perform in front of live audiences, showcasing their skills and entertaining the crowd.
• Collaborate with other circus performers to create choreographed routines and acts.
• Maintain physical fitness and stamina to ensure performance readiness.
• Travel with the circus troupe to different locations for shows and performances.

What does the day-to-day life of a circus performer look like?

A circus performer's schedule can vary depending on the circus they work for. They usually have training sessions and rehearsals to practice and improve their acts. The actual performances take place during specified show times. Performers often have to travel to different cities or countries for shows, which can involve living in a tour bus or staying in temporary accommodation.

Where does a circus performer work?

Circus performers primarily work in circuses, which can be traditional big top circuses or contemporary circus companies. They may also perform in other venues, such as theaters, variety shows, or special events.

What tools/props does a circus performer use?

The tools and props used by circus performers can vary depending on the act or skill they perform. Some examples include:

• Aerial performers use equipment like trapezes, silks, or hoops.
• Acrobats may use mats, balance beams, or trampolines.
• Jugglers use various objects such as balls, rings, or clubs.

What do I need to become a circus performer?

There are several paths to becoming a circus performer, including:

• Training and education: Many circus performers receive professional training from circus schools or academies.
• Specialized classes and workshops: Taking classes in specific skills like acrobatics, aerial arts, or clowning can help develop your abilities.
• Joining a circus troupe: Sometimes, performers start as apprentices or trainees within a circus troupe and learn on the job.
• Experience and practice: Developing your skills through practice and performing in amateur shows or festivals can also help you become a circus performer.

What career paths are available?

There are various career paths available to circus performers, including:

• Headliner Performer: A seasoned circus performer may become the main act or headliner in a circus show.
• Circus Director: After gaining experience and knowledge of the industry, some performers transition into directing and producing circus shows.
• Circus Teacher/Coach: Sharing their expertise and teaching aspiring performers in circus schools or workshops.

What jobs are similar to a circus performer?

• Street Performer: Similar to a circus performer, street performers entertain and attract audiences in public spaces.
• Stunt Performer: Stunt performers showcase their physical skills and perform daring acts in movies, television shows, or live performances.
• Gymnast: Gymnasts demonstrate agility, strength, and skills in gymnastics competitions or exhibitions.

One Circus Performer's Experience

I’m a professional circus performer with a passion for fire shows, juggling, acrobatics, and balance acts. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to perform across different countries and for diverse audiences, blending traditional circus artistry with a modern creative edge to create memorable live experiences.

What made you want to become a circus performer?

I’ve always been fascinated by the energy and creativity of live performance. The idea of combining athleticism, artistry, and risk to tell a story without words really drew me in. It felt like a place where being different wasn’t just accepted – it was celebrated.

How did you get your first circus performer job?

I started by practising on my own and performing at small local events and festivals. I built a few acts, filmed them, and shared them online. Eventually, a small circus troupe noticed my work and offered me my first professional contract.

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a circus performer?

It was how much happens behind the scenes: the endless training, planning, travel, and teamwork. On stage it looks effortless, but off stage it takes a lot of discipline, patience, and constant learning.

Find out more about me

To find out more about me, visit my Instagram page.

Are you a circus performer? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to circus performing. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.