Description
Circus, an art form which explores the aesthetic potential of extreme physical action by bodies (animal and human), is particularly focused on direct engagement with audiences. In a kaleidoscope of studies, this volume highlights and addresses: research on circus performance of particular historical periods and world regions; individual figures of circus history; animals as performers; and aspects of particular institutions and approaches to contemporary circus work, including social circus and support industries, among other topics. Classic accounts of performance are included alongside more recent scholarship.