The circus is a unique form of entertainment, combining dramatic acts, music, and stunning costumes with the thrill of the unknown. For centuries, it has been a source of amazement and wonder for people of all ages. In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of circus, entertainment under the big top.
The Origins of Circus
The roots of the modern circus can be traced back to the Roman Empire, where it was known as a “ludus” – an arena for public entertainment. From then on, the circus has evolved to include a variety of acts and performances. The earliest known circus was established in London in 1768 by showman Philip Astley. Astley’s circus was considered a “circus of the arts” – combining jugglers, acrobats, clowns, and tightrope walkers.
The Rise of the Big Top
The big top, or circus tent, is an iconic part of the circus. It first appeared in 1782, when showman Charles Hughes used a canvas tent to stage his performances. Hughes’ tent was much larger than the original tents used by Astley and other early circuses. By the mid-19th century, the big top was the standard setup for circuses.
The Expansion of Circus Entertainment
Over the course of the 19th century, the circus expanded to include a variety of acts and performances. The most popular acts included trapeze artists, animal acts, and human cannonballs. By the turn of the century, circuses had become a form of popular entertainment for the masses.
The Decline of the Circus
In the early 20th century, the popularity of the circus began to decline. This was due to a number of factors, including the emergence of new forms of entertainment, such as the movies, and the increasing cost of running a circus. By the 1950s, many circuses had gone out of business.
The Revival of Circus Entertainment
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the circus. While it may not be as popular as it once was, the circus remains an important form of entertainment. Many of the old acts have been updated and modernized, and there are now a variety of new performances, such as high-wire acts and fire-breathing performances.
The circus is a unique form of entertainment that has captivated audiences for centuries. From its early beginnings to its modern-day revival, it has provided a source of amazement and wonder for people of all ages. We hope this article has given you an insight into the fascinating history of circus, entertainment under the big top.