How to Join a Circus

If you have an extraordinary talent and want to break out of your usual work routine, consider joining a circus. There are some things you need to know before you jump in; in addition to attending circus school and getting formal training for your talent, you'll need to open up your schedule for traveling around the clock.

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Instructions

Circus Life

1. Circus life is not actually as carefree or glamorous as it may appear: It involves lots of hard work and sacrifice. You'll have to move into a circus trailer, and it may be located next to the scary lion trailer or, worse yet, the foul-smelling elephant trailer. You'll be expected to put on a smile and work weekdays, weekends and some holidays, through fatigue and bad moods, even when there are only five people in the audience. After each succession of performances is over, you pack up, move to a new town and do it all over again; this goes on year-'round.
   
   The upside to all pf this is that you'll get to see the world (or at least the country), and the awe and applause of the audience may keep you motivated. Plus, because of their nomadic lifestyle, circus people form tight-knit communities. Marriage between circus folk is common, and kids often travel with the crew and get schooled by their performing parents. So if you join the circus, you'll inherit a very special family.

Next: Circus Talents

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Resources

• Ringling Brothers FAQ
• Clown Museum
• Trapeze Arts