A quick history of circus

Open air circuses with acrobats, chariot races, bareback riders and comedy acts were popular in ancient Rome. In the 18th century fixed buildings were used, and in the early 19th century traveling circuses appeared in Europe and America. Troupes moved from place to place, setting up a large tent, or “big top”. The most famous American circus proprietor was Phineas T.Barnum (1810 – 91). His shows were spectacular, with trick riding, juggling, trapeze acts, tightrope walking, strong men, and wild – cat tamers. They also featured “human oddities”, or freak shows, in which Siamese twins, giants or bearded ladies were often paraded before the curious crowd. Since the 20th century, all – human Chinese and Russian circus companies have toured the world, as well as alterative circus troupes such as Circus Oz, Ra Ra Zoo and Archaos, whose acts have included juggling with chainsaws and jumping over blazing motorbikes.