Circus

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Champion great danes from the Imperial kennels, poster for Forepaugh and Sells Brothers, 1898

File:1954 Episode of the TV series "Super Circus".ogv

Astley's Amphitheatre Microcosm edited

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Circus Ronaldo door Dirk Annemans

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The training of wild animals (1903) (14764853204)

Circus is a type of performing arts that involves a variety of physical performances, including but not limited to acrobatics, clown acts, juggling, trapeze acts, and animal training. Originating in ancient times, the modern circus was developed in the late 18th century in Europe, with Philip Astley often credited as its founder. The circus has since evolved into a global phenomenon, adapting to changes in society and technology while retaining its core elements of spectacle and entertainment.

History

The history of the circus can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where performances that included acrobatic acts and animal training were common. However, the modern circus is generally agreed to have been created by Philip Astley in London in 1768. Astley, a former cavalry sergeant-major turned showman, opened a riding school where he taught during the day and performed daring feats of horsemanship in the evening. He added a variety of acts to his shows, including jugglers, acrobats, clowns, and performing animals, creating a circular arena he called the "circle" or circus.

As the popularity of Astley's circus grew, the concept spread across Europe and to the Americas. In the 19th century, the circus continued to evolve with the introduction of the Big Top, a large tent that allowed the circus to travel to different locations and reach a wider audience. The American circus also saw the emergence of the three-ring circus, which allowed for a variety of acts to be performed simultaneously.

Types of Acts

Circus acts can vary widely, but some of the most common include:

• Acrobatics - Performers execute flips, tumbles, and other feats of strength and agility.
• Clowning - Clowns engage in comedic performances, often involving slapstick humor and audience interaction.
• Juggling - Jugglers keep multiple objects in motion, using hands or other parts of the body.
• Trapeze - Artists perform aerial maneuvers while hanging from a trapeze.
• Animal Training - Trainers work with animals, such as lions, elephants, and horses, to perform various tricks.

Contemporary Circus

In recent years, the circus has undergone significant changes, with a shift towards more contemporary forms that emphasize human performance and artistry over animal acts. This change has been driven in part by concerns over animal welfare and changing public attitudes towards the use of animals in entertainment. Contemporary circuses, such as Cirque du Soleil, focus on storytelling, character development, and elaborate staging, blending traditional circus skills with dance, music, and theater.

Circus Around the World

The circus has a rich tradition in many countries, each adding its own cultural influences to the art form. In Russia, the circus has been recognized as an important part of cultural heritage, with state-supported schools and companies. The Chinese circus, with its emphasis on acrobatic performance, has a history dating back over 2000 years. In Latin America, small family-owned circuses, known as "circos," travel from town to town, bringing traditional circus performances to rural areas.

Challenges and Future

The circus industry faces several challenges, including economic pressures, changing entertainment preferences, and concerns over animal rights. Despite these challenges, the circus continues to evolve, with performers and companies finding new ways to engage and amaze audiences. The future of the circus lies in its ability to adapt, innovate, and continue to offer a unique blend of artistry, bravery, and spectacle.

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