Why Do People Love Circus Performances
Nowadays, technology has enough power to turn once unimaginable things into reality. Animators and special effects artists come up with novelties each day. And yet, most of us are still mesmerized by what circus artists are able to perform in the ring. Let’s find out more about the art of circus performances and the best Vegas has to offer.
How Are We Charmed By Circus Artists
We love to see artists defying gravity and literally flying on stage. Although we love movies with special effects, there is something about artistic circus performances that are magical and engaging.
When you think of the circus, what is the first thing that comes to mind? A series of incredible acts with performers from around the world gathered together in one place. Whether it is under a touring big top or in a permanent venue, you will see them all: jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, and balancing acts.
But have you wondered where it came from in the first place? For how long have the circus and the most famous circus acts been around?
The History Of Circus Performances
In the Roman Empire, the circus had an important social function. It was used to commemorate important events of an empire. They would reenact naval battles, for example. It would also host carriage and horse races. They would as well show off exotic animals, a tradition that still survives in some circuses nowadays.
Jugglers and acrobats were not around in Roman circuses. However, there are records of jugglers in paintings in Egypt from 2000 B.C., and those may have had religious significance. We started seeing evidence of acrobats and jugglers touring Europe in the Middle Ages.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the circus became nomadic. They would tour Europe and stop at each village, and each market, showing off their abilities and mesmerizing the people of the time.
What about clowns? Egypt is known to have had clowns as early as 2500 B.C., and jesters were all around Europe from the dawn of time. Jokers hit their peak in popularity in the 16th century but were not really part of the circus yet.
Modern-Age Circus Performances
The history of the modern circus started when Philip Astley, recognized as the father of the circus, put all these strands of history together in 1768. It was an instant success in Europe, and by the 19th century, the circus was touring North America from Montreal to Havana. It expanded with Astley’s company and others.
On a more sad note, freak shows date back to 16th-century England and became part of the circus too. Thankfully, the practice was nearly abandoned in the early 20th century.
The circus survived the invention of the radio, movies, and television in the 20th century. Touring circuses were filling arenas all around the world. During that time, the equestrian acts were losing space for more spectacular acts of strength and daring.
By the 1970s, circuses started to reinvent themselves. They began to experiment and became more theatrical. They would concentrate on a story, themes, characters, emotion, and lighting. In 1984, Cirque du Soleil was born and soon became the world’s leading circus company. It constantly embraces radical creativity.
With the horses gone, circuses now could exist in very different venues. Some skills showcased in circuses date back 4000 years, but they are always reinventing themselves. The circus tradition still has lots of room to grow. It’s a neverending journey.
Circus Performances In Vegas
Circus Circus Hotel and Casino
At the Midway at Circus Circus Hotel And Casino, you have a space of entertainment for the whole family including daily circus performances. You are able to experience the world’s largest permanent circus, highlighting the center stage of the Carnival Midway daily. Best of all, the amazement is free! See performances starting at 1:30 p.m. Monday – Thursday and 11:30 a.m. Friday – Sunday. Find more about this incredible Vegas attraction on their website.
Cirque Du Soleil
In Vegas, there are not one, not two, but six Cirque du Soleil performances going on at the same time in different venues. Sin City is the perfect location for this type of high-level entertainment. It has infinite options for accommodation and all the amenities for the public, along with being the top location for business conventions in the world.
- Mad Apple at New York New York Hotel and Casino
- The Beatles LOVE only at The Mirage Hotel and Casino
- KÀ at MGM Grand
- Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino
- Mistère at Treasure Island
- “O” at Bellagio Hotel and Casino
See the full schedule and all the information for this breathtaking range of events here.
Incredible Moments
Famous illusionist Franz Harary says “Magicians lie to you, and are honest about it. The audience goes into the theater with the understanding that they are going to be fooled.”. When we think of circus performances, we could compare them with magic. Of course, spectators know that all that is done has technique behind it and a lot of practice, of course. But nevertheless, we are struck by the acts. Why? “What you see becomes your reality”, says Harary. This kind of magic, such as in circus performances, occurs in the minds and the expressions of the people watching it.
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