Art
The circus was America's most popular traveling entertainment for nearly two centuries. Families saved money and blocked off days to see acrobats, animals, and spectacle arrive by train. For many ordinary people, especially in small towns, the circus was their only access to live performance and wonder.
Art · Full story
The calliope music pierces the morning air as the tent goes up on the fairgrounds. Children press against the rope barrier, eyes wide at the elephants being led past. By evening, the whole town crowds into wooden bleachers, holding their breath as a woman in sequins swings by her teeth above the ring.
Reflect
What was the last time you felt genuine amazement watching live performance with others?