ANIMAL CRUELTY AND THE CIRCUS

From my research, although I have a great love for and interest in animals, the vast majority of my past projects have ended up somehow being about them. I have looked at cats, guinea pigs and pets in general so it is evidently time to head in a different direction.

One subject that appears to have potential is 'the circus'.  

A brief history

CIRCUS HISTORY

In the past, the typical circus was held within an oval or circular showground with tiered seating often flanking the edges. Other circuses performed under a large tent, but in Rome, an open-air stadium served as the arena where an array of public exhibitions took place. Horse races, staged battles, equestrian shows, and chariot competitions unfolded, as spectators cheered and embraced this exhilarating form of entertainment.

 People of rank were seating at the lower arrangements, while separate state boxes were offered to the host of the games and their friends. The circus in Ancient Rome also served as a significant event in history because it was the only public scene that allowed men and women to enjoy an event with one another.

The first circus established in Rome was called the Circus Maximus. Additional circuses in Rome flourished, including the Circus Flaminius, the Circus Neronis, and the Circus of Maxentius.

MODERN EMBRACE

When exploring the modern concept of the circus, the exhibition of acrobatics, horses, and other performances became quite popular. As for the father of the modern circus, many credit a Briton named Philip Astley with the establishment of the first permanent and traveling circus that illuminated Britain and Europe throughout the late 18th century.

England embraced circus performances in London, where the first exhibition is believed to have taken place on January 9th, 1768. Astley is known for contributing trick horse riding to the circus scene.

The circus became so popular in England that large cities constructed buildings for the purpose of accommodating shows. An example of this is seen with the establishment of the London Hippodrome, which showcased a combination arena with circus, menagerie, and variety theater. Sometimes, wild animals, such as lions and elephants, decorated the ring.

THE CONTEMPORARY CIRCUS

The 1960’s and 1970’s brought harsh times for the circus, as animal rights became a hot topic of concern. Circuses started to merge with other productions in order to maintain their business. They also started to create a mix of acts that showcased both animals and human performers.This can be seen in the efforts of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, the Moscow State Circus, and the Circus Royale in Australia. A shift from animal performers to complete human productions started to emerge in many countries.

An illustrious example of an animal-free circus show is the infamous Cirque Du Soleil productions, which travels worldwide to present extraordinary displays of creativity and beauty.

source: http://www.jugglenow.com/history-of-the-circus.html