THE ROUTLEDGE CIRCUS STUDIES READER

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.