Types of Circus Entertainers

A circus may or may not be “the greatest show on earth,” but the variety of impressive skills and acts are certain to entertain and amaze. Circus entertainers (and animals in the circus acts) most commonly travel together, bringing their entire show to various locales.  The numerous fascinating talents and types of circus entertainers draw big audiences to circuses year after year.

Comedy and Theatrics

No circus is complete without clowns.  Wild wigs and bright, wacky costumes (complete with extra large feet!) add to the look and appeal of these comic performers.  The performing skills of clowns may further include such tricks as unicycle riding, stilt walking, and juggling.

Similarly, mimes may perform without speaking at all, yet convey their entertaining story with the use of their hands and the motions of their bodies.

Amazing Animals

Traditional circus acts have included elephants, horses, dogs, bears, lions, tigers, and other "big cats." Animal trainers create clever and daring performances with these animals.

Many animal welfare groups have insisted that this type of animal training is often a form of animal cruelty. Still audiences have come to expect the entertainment these magnificent creatures bring to the circus ring.

Athleticism and Gymnastic Feats

Acrobats and aerialists continually wow audiences with remarkable feats of daring, strength, and agility. Tightrope walking, for example, requires extraordinary balance, not to mention tremendous courage.

Contortionists also display unusual gymnastic ability. Their unique acts require astonishing flexibility, such as bending perfectly and painstakingly into a compressed form that allows the person to actually fit inside a relatively small trunk or other container, much to the delight of audiences.