How to Run Away With the Circus

Last Updated: December 27, 2021

Circus life can be nothing short of enchanting. You may have read books about children who run away to join the circus. More broadly, this idea represents leaving a dull life for a colorful one. Here are some tips to becoming a part of the difficult but glamorous world that is the circus.

Steps

1
Get into shape. To be a part of any circus, you should be highly capable physically. Before you join in the clowning about, practice your flexibility for a few months. If you're interested in trapeze or aerial silk, make sure to stretch every day and practice flexibility exercises. Eat healthy foods, and stay as physically active as you can.
2
Choose an act. Circuses usually require auditions, and you should build a repertoire. Look into things like acrobatics, diabolo, unicycle, and trampolining. Once you've picked something to study, get equipment for it and begin practice. Build a bit of a show, perhaps with a theme for entertainment value, to attract possible employers and for use in auditions.

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3
Find a good costume. Some performance attire can be revealing, tight-fitting, or simply wacky. Make sure you have the right costume for you, and that it fits your act. For example, you wouldn't want long, flowing sleeves for fire dancing.
4
Make sure your makeup is pixel perfect. In the circus, you have to do everything yourself with no help from a makeup attendant. So purchase and collect your own makeup. Good things to use are shiny eyeshadow and diamond studs. If your show has a theme, play off of it. For example, a show based around fire might involve brightly colored makeup.
5
Practice your smile. Yours may vary based on your act and your own personality. Some performers may opt for a sexy, one-sided smile, but a friendly grin can also warm the hearts of your audience.
6
Consider the realities of circus life. The circus is a crowded environment by nature, and you may not have much time alone. If you can't stand the thought, consider performing in another setting.

Community Q&A

Question

I have been told that I am an astonishing singer. Is there room for singing in the circus?

Community Answer

Circuses don't usually feature singers, although Cirque du Soleil does.
Question

Are fire swallowing or juggling good acts for a circus?

Community Answer

While both are indeed circus classics, some circuses may opt not to include these mainstays, for safety or other practical reasons.
Question

Where do performers sleep and live when they are on tour with the circus?

Community Answer

Most of the times, they sleep in their caravans, but some large circuses might give the performers a place to live.

Warnings

Many circus acts involve risk by nature. While circuses today have safety equipment, it's still possible for things to go wrong. Study the dangers of your chosen act carefully.

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Think carefully about whether you truly want to join the circus. This will involve a huge change in lifestyle, and much less time with family. Weigh the risks and benefits before acting.

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You might sprain yourself if you do not warm up before performances, so please do.

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