Knowra Circus Circus A live performance tradition combining specialized acts such as acrobatics, clowning, juggling, and aerial feats, often presented in sequence under a tent or in an arena.
Acrobatics : Physical performances involving feats of balance, agility, flexibility, and coordinated movement. Acrobatic feats are a central display of bodily skill in many circus programs.
Philip Astley : An English equestrian performer who established a London riding arena in 1768 and helped shape the modern circus. His circular riding performances helped establish the format later called circus.
Ringmaster : A performer or announcer who introduces acts and helps direct a circus program. The ringmaster connects individual acts and guides the show’s pace.
Contemporary circus : A circus form that combines circus techniques with theatrical structure, devised performance, and artistic themes. It often replaces the traditional sequence of independent acts with a unified production.
Clown : A comic performer who uses costume, gesture, timing, and character to provoke laughter. Clowns supply comic interludes and recurring characters within circus performance.
Astley's Amphitheatre : A London entertainment venue founded by Philip Astley, known for equestrian displays and varied performances. It provides a landmark example of the early circus venue.
Big top : A large tent used as a venue for circus performances. The tent creates a portable arena designed around the circus ring.
Street performance : Live entertainment presented in public spaces, often relying on direct interaction with passersby. Unlike a ticketed circus, it usually unfolds in open public space without a dedicated venue.
Aerial silk : An aerial circus apparatus consisting of long fabric strips suspended from above for climbing, wrapping, and drops. It is one specific apparatus for the circus’s aerial feats.
Equestrianism : The practice and sport of riding, training, and competing with horses. Horse riding and trick riding supplied the circus’s original organizing attraction.
Show all 24