A Circus Performer can perform solo or as part of a group, specialising in one or more circus art. Circus arts can include the following:

• Aerial including rope, flying trapeze and hoop
• Tightrope 
• Acrobatics
• Contortion

Circus Performers can perform an act based on several different skills and perform them to an audience often in street theatre, festivals or parties and corporate events. Circus Performers also use their skills in other areas of performing arts like theatre, opera and film. 

Find opportunities in circus performance here. 

What are the main responsibilities of a Circus Performer?

• Keep fit
• Rehearse alone or with a team
• Develop new acts
• Maintain equipment used in your act
• Perform to an audience alongside a team or solo

You can also search for opportunities with The Stage Jobs here.

What qualifications do I need to be a Circus Performer?

You do not need any formal qualifications to be a Circus Performer, however this is an option. You can complete a Degree in Circus Arts or a BTEC in Circus Arts. You can also complete workshops and part-time courses in order to gain the skills you need to be an ideal Circus Performer. Studying drama, performance or dance would also be beneficial.

Find more opportunities in performance including drama and dance here. 

What skills do I need to be a Circus Performer?

• Attention to detail
• Creativity
• Discipline
• Patience
• Physical fitness and flexibility
• Teamwork

What does a career as a Circus Performer look like?

You must have perfected at least one act. As your career continues you will be able to develop your skills and create new acts. You can join a circus company or audition for any acrobatic roles available in theatre productions. Sometimes you can take your act to a festival such as Edinburgh Fringe Festival to promote your work. Some Circus Performers begin performing in street theatre and then from there move into other areas.  

Find all careers advice here. 

References:

https://www.ucas.com/ucas/after-gcses/find-career-ideas/explore-jobs/job-profile/circus-performer

https://www.nationalcircus.org.uk/courses-classes/adult-courses

https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/circus-performer

Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 27 August 2019