CIRCUS

Another aspect of our wide range of performing arts. Our collection includes posters, clowns, acrobats, trapeze, tightrope walkers, jugglers and trained animals

In England the first recorded performance was in 1768. Russia and America 1793. Initially English circuses were usually held in large purpose built buildings such as London’s Hippodrome, thus enabling them to combine circus, animals and variety. The move to tents and the Big Top came from America in 1825 as did the inclusion of human oddities billed as freak shows!

In Russia, the circus is regarded as an art form along with ballet and opera. Seen as a showcase for highly skilled and original creative artists it was considered to be a truly popular egalitarian form of entertainment, enjoyed by all, regardless of race, language, age, education or class.

Since the 1970’s circuses have evolved into Cirque nouveau where influences are drawn from contemporary culture as much as from circus history.
Our collection covers both old and new imagery.