The allure of the circus has captivated audiences for centuries, offering a blend of artistry, athleticism, and awe-inspiring performances. In the United States, the circus tradition is rich and varied, with numerous companies pushing the boundaries of what is possible under the big top. From traditional tented spectacles to contemporary theatrical productions, these circuses bring wonder and excitement to audiences across the country. Here, we explore the top 10 best circuses in the USA.
Top 10 Best Circuses in the USA
1. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus
Known as “The Greatest Show on Earth,” Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus has a storied history that dates back to the 19th century. After a brief hiatus, the circus is making a comeback with renewed vigor and innovation.
Key Features
Rich History: With over a century of entertainment history, Ringling Bros. has been a staple in American circus culture.
Modern Innovations: The latest iteration focuses on animal-free performances, highlighting human acrobatics, comedy, and spectacle.
Diverse Acts: From aerialists to clowns, the show features a wide range of performers who bring excitement and joy to audiences.
Must-See Acts
High-Flying Trapeze: The daring feats of the trapeze artists are a highlight, showcasing incredible agility and coordination.
Contortionists and Acrobats: These performers twist and bend in ways that seem impossible, leaving audiences in awe.
2. Cirque du Soleil
Cirque du Soleil, based in Montreal, Canada, has become an international phenomenon, with numerous resident shows and touring productions in the USA. Known for its avant-garde style, Cirque du Soleil blends circus arts with street entertainment.
Key Features
Artistic Excellence: Each show is a masterpiece of visual and auditory stimulation, combining live music, intricate costumes, and stunning set designs.
Innovative Performances: Cirque du Soleil is famous for pushing the boundaries of traditional circus, incorporating theater, dance, and acrobatics.
Variety of Shows: With multiple shows running concurrently, there’s always something new to see, from “O” in Las Vegas to “Luzia” on tour.
Must-See Acts
Aerial Silks: Performers gracefully ascend and descend using long pieces of fabric, creating a mesmerizing display of strength and grace.
Wheel of Death: This heart-stopping act involves acrobats performing on a rotating apparatus, defying gravity and danger.
3. Big Apple Circus
The Big Apple Circus, based in New York City, is a beloved institution that offers an intimate, one-ring circus experience. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and close-up view of the performers, it has been delighting audiences since 1977.
Key Features
One-Ring Format: The single ring allows for a more personal and engaging experience, with every seat close to the action.
Focus on Community: The Big Apple Circus is known for its commitment to inclusivity, with special performances for children with autism and other disabilities.
Classic Circus Acts: The show features a mix of traditional circus acts, including clowns, jugglers, and acrobats.
Must-See Acts
The Flying Trapeze: A staple of any circus, the trapeze artists at Big Apple Circus perform with precision and flair.
Animal Acts: While many circuses have moved away from animal performances, Big Apple Circus features well-cared-for animals in its acts, ensuring ethical treatment.
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4. Circus Vargas
Circus Vargas, based in California, offers a unique blend of traditional circus charm and modern theatrical flair. Known for its big top tent and family-oriented shows, Circus Vargas provides an immersive circus experience.
Key Features
Traveling Big Top: The classic blue and yellow big top tent creates an authentic circus atmosphere wherever they go.
Family-Focused Shows: Designed to appeal to audiences of all ages, Circus Vargas emphasizes family-friendly entertainment.
Skilled Performers: The cast includes some of the most talented acrobats, aerialists, and clowns in the industry.
Must-See Acts
Aerial Hoop: Performers showcase their strength and flexibility while spinning and posing on a suspended hoop.
Comedy Clowns: The clowns at Circus Vargas are masters of slapstick humor, bringing laughter to the entire audience.
5. UniverSoul Circus
UniverSoul Circus, founded in 1994 in Atlanta, Georgia, is known for its vibrant and diverse performances that celebrate African-American culture and global influences. It is one of the most dynamic and inclusive circuses in the USA.
Key Features
Cultural Diversity: The performances reflect a wide range of cultural traditions, including African, Caribbean, and Latin American influences.
Interactive Experience: UniverSoul Circus is known for its high-energy, interactive shows that encourage audience participation.
Music and Dance: Live music and dance are integral parts of the performances, creating a festive and engaging atmosphere.
Must-See Acts
Hip-Hop Dance: The dance crews bring urban culture to the circus, blending acrobatics with hip-hop moves.
Global Acts: From Caribbean stilt walkers to African acrobats, the variety of international acts is a highlight.
6. Cirque Mechanics
Cirque Mechanics, based in Las Vegas, Nevada, offers a unique blend of mechanical innovation and human artistry. Known for its steampunk aesthetic and inventive apparatus, Cirque Mechanics delivers a truly unique circus experience.
Key Features
Mechanical Marvels: The shows incorporate custom-built machinery and apparatus, adding a distinctive steampunk flavor.
Narrative-Driven: Each performance tells a story, blending circus arts with theatrical storytelling.
Skilled Artisans: The cast includes top-tier acrobats, aerialists, and contortionists who perform alongside mechanical creations.
Must-See Acts
The Gantry Bike: A giant, moving apparatus that serves as the stage for various acrobatic feats.
Steampunk Aerial Acts: Performers use intricate mechanical rigs for their aerial performances, creating a unique visual spectacle.
7. The Pickle Family Circus
The Pickle Family Circus, originating in San Francisco, California, is a pioneering force in the American contemporary circus movement. Known for its intimate performances and emphasis on storytelling, it has influenced many modern circus productions.
Key Features
Intimate Performances: Shows are often held in smaller venues, creating a closer connection between the performers and the audience.
Innovative Acts: The circus is known for blending traditional acts with contemporary performance art.
Focus on Artistry: The emphasis is on the artistry of the performers, with a strong narrative element in each show.
Must-See Acts
Clowning and Mime: The Pickle Family Circus is known for its exceptional clown and mime performances, bringing humor and heart to the stage.
Acrobatic Ensembles: Group acrobatic acts that showcase teamwork and precision.
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8. The Flying Fruit Fly Circus
The Flying Fruit Fly Circus, also known as the “Fruities,” is a youth circus based in Albury, New South Wales, but with strong ties and performances across the USA. It is renowned for its training programs and the skill level of its young performers.
Key Features
Youth Performers: The circus features talented young acrobats and performers, showcasing incredible skills at a young age.
Professional Training: The performers receive professional-level training, making the acts as impressive as those of adult circuses.
Innovative Shows: Each performance is a blend of high-energy acrobatics, theater, and storytelling.
Must-See Acts
Trampoline Wall: A dynamic act where performers bounce off a trampoline to scale a vertical wall.
Group Acrobatics: Large ensemble acts that feature coordinated flips, jumps, and balancing feats.
9. Midnight Circus
Midnight Circus, based in Chicago, Illinois, combines traditional circus acts with contemporary themes and community engagement. Known for its urban setting and intimate performances, it brings circus arts directly into local neighborhoods.
Key Features
Community Focus: Midnight Circus is committed to bringing high-quality circus performances to underserved communities.
Unique Venues: Performances are often held in parks and urban spaces, making the circus accessible to a wider audience.
Diverse Acts: The show features a variety of acts, including aerialists, acrobats, and jugglers, each with a modern twist.
Must-See Acts
Aerial Straps:Performers use straps to execute breathtaking aerial maneuvers.
Urban Acrobats: Acts that incorporate elements of street performance and urban culture.
10. Circus Flora
Circus Flora, based in St. Louis, Missouri, is known for its one-ring, European-style circus performances. Each show is crafted with a specific narrative, creating a cohesive and engaging experience for audiences.
Key Features
Narrative-Driven: Each performance tells a story, blending circus acts with theatrical elements.
Family Atmosphere: The circus maintains a warm, family-friendly environment, welcoming audiences of all ages.
Traditional Acts: While incorporating modern elements, Circus Flora stays true to many traditional circus acts.
Must-See Acts
Equestrian Performances: Stunning displays of horsemanship that blend grace and precision.
High-Wire Acts: Daring feats of balance and bravery high above the circus ring.
Conclusion
The circus in the USA is a vibrant and evolving art form, with each company bringing its unique flavor to the tradition. From the timeless appeal of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus to the innovative artistry of Cirque du Soleil, these circuses offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, cultural celebration, or cutting-edge performances, the top 10 circuses in the USA deliver unforgettable experiences that continue to captivate audiences across the nation.
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