Entertainment at Circus Circus: A Sideshow Perspective

Circus Circus is not just about the grand parades and big top acts. It's also a thriving stage for sideshows – vibrant displays of skill, courage, and entertainment. This article delves into the rich world of sideshow acts and the unique performances that can be experienced at Circus Circus.

What is There to Do at Circus Circus?

Circus Circus hosts a variety of acts, with a significant focus on the sideshow. Unlike the circus big top performances, which might be less familiar to some, sideshow acts are a deeply rooted tradition with a community of performers dedicated to these crafty skills.

Aerial Acrobatics and the Big Top: A Different Realm

Aerial acrobatics, those breathtaking flights and rotations in the air, are a different world from the sideshow. They have their own dedicated community and styles, each with its own unique clique. These performers often study with experienced mentors, honing their skills over years of practice.

The Sideshow Acts: A Diverse Display of Skill

From flickering flames to razor-sharp blades, the sideshow is a showcase of human skill, courage, and creativity. Some of the few acts I perform include:

Fire Manipulation: A mesmerizing fusion of fire and human skill. From fire eating to fire dancing, this act demands immense precision and control. Juggling: A classic sideshow act that has been captivating audiences for generations. Unicycle Stilts: Balancing and acrobatics on an elevated unicycle, a visually stunning display of physical prowess. Bed of Nails: Walking or standing on a bed of nails that can weigh up to 50 pounds, a true test of steel and skill.

And there’s much more, such as:

Bed of Glass: Similar to a bed of nails but even more challenging, this act demands complete focus and control. Human Pincushion: Standing on a bed of pins without being poked, a test of pain tolerance and skill. Torture King: A strongman act that showcases incredible physical strength and resilience. Ripping Phone Books and Smashing Cinder Blocks: Shows of brute strength and precision, these acts are not for the faint of heart.

The Path to Mastery: Self-Taught Skills with a Twist

The majority of the skills I perform are self-taught, with occasional tips and stories exchanged amongst peers. Equipment, especially for acts like the bed of nails, is often handmade. A bed of nails, for instance, can cost around $100 in materials alone and weighs about 50 pounds.

The journey to mastery in these acts is rarely easy. Knowledgeable performers are few and far between, and those who are hesitate to share their secrets due to the inherent dangers involved. Approximately 95% of the necessary equipment must be handmade, and even when it’s commercially available, it often comes at a high cost.

Despite the challenges, the passion for these acts never wanes. The combination of love for entertainment, a touch of attention-seeking, and the respect for the skill and courage required keeps me going.

Curious About the Basics?

If you're curious about the basics of these fascinating sideshow acts, I'd be more than happy to share. Feel free to reach out by messaging me. Let's explore these incredible performances together.