People from all around the world have been enjoying circuses as a magnificent form of entertainment for millennia. The circus is a broad and magnificent showcase of human and animal talent, featuring everything from acrobats to clowns, trapeze artists to animal trainers. But who was the originator? Whose circus was the first?
Most historians agree that Philip Astley founded the first circus in England around 1768. Astley was a skilled rider and a former cavalry officer who loved horses. When he first started performing horse shows, he quickly realized that by including other acts like acrobats and clowns, he could draw in larger crowds. The contemporary circus was created at this time.
The character played by Zac Efron in the film “The Greatest Showman” is not based on Philip Astley in this regard. As opposed to this, Efron takes on the role of Phillip Carlyle, a fictional character that is partially based on James A. Bailey, a co-founder of Barnum & Bailey Circus. The Circo Atayde in Mexico, which has been delighting audiences for more than 130 years, is the longest-running circus in the world. Aurelio Atayde created the circus in 1888, and it is still active today, exhibiting a range of acts like trapeze performers, clowns, and animal trainers.
There are a number of circuses to choose from in the UK. The well-known Cirque du Soleil maintains a permanent residence in London and has given acclaimed performances throughout the UK. Giffords Circus, Zippos Circus, and Circus Extreme are a few further well-known circuses in the UK.
How many circuses are there in total? Given that there are so many various kinds of circuses present in the world, it is challenging to answer. There are probably hundreds, if not thousands, of circuses in operation today, ranging from small, family-run troupes that move from town to town to massive, international troupes like Cirque du Soleil.
In conclusion, the history of the circus is vast and fascinating, spanning epochs and continents. The circus has captivated audiences of all ages with its daring feats of skill and bravery since its humble beginnings in England to its current global prominence. There is a circus out there for everyone to enjoy, whether you favor classic animal performances or cutting-edge acrobatic performances.