Circus Performance

Circus performers entertain audiences with displays of different skills. 

These can include acrobatics, clowning, juggling or aerial performances on the trapeze or high wire.

Circus performers act solo or as part of a group. They might specialise in one particular skill, or base their act around a few different skills.

They could perform with a traditional or modern circus company, or use their skills in street theatre, festivals, or parties and corporate events.

Performing is only one part of the work - they also spend a lot of time: keeping fit; rehearsing; developing new acts; looking after any equipment used in an act; and travelling (if with a touring company).

They might also spend time promoting their act to agents and attending auditions to find work.

Income can vary widely as work is often part-time or temporary.

Part-time or occasional circus performers may earn between £50 and £200 a show.

A recent survey of Equity members found that nearly half of people in the UK performance industry had earned less than £6,000 from performing in the previous year, and only 6% earned more than £30,000 from the profession.

Contact Equity or the Circus Development Agency for recommended pay rates for performers.

To become a professional circus performer, you will need a high level of ability in at least one circus art.

Your talent and skills are more important than academic qualifications.

You can learn circus skills in several ways, including: part-time adult education classes; community circuses; weekend and summer workshops; full-time professional courses.

Visit the Circus Development Agency website for details on where to find circus skills training at all levels.

It can be an advantage if you have skills in gymnastics and dance.

Some performing arts courses at college or university can be useful, as they often include mime, dance and physical theatre skills and may include circus skills. Check with providers about course content and entry requirements.

You may sometimes be able to join a touring circus company in a seasonal or casual job as a general assistant. Contact circus companies directly to find out about any opportunities (see the Circus Development Agency website for contact details).

To find work, you must be able to pass auditions to show that you can perform to a professional standard.