Circus performers have a better outlook in today's society than most jobs, and they get to do what they love for a living.Where do you want to sign up?If you're working on a skill that you want to dedicate your life to, your name could be the next big act.You have a wild ride ahead of you, so it's best to start now.
Step 1: Start honing your skills.
Circuses have many different jobs.There are more opportunities because of the different types of circuses.If you want to join a circus, you will need a specific skill or talent that the circus will find valuable.This could be anything from Silk aerials to trapeze, acrobatics, juggling, tightrope, diabolo, clowning, stilt walking, or anything in between.You won't be able to learn a skill overnight because most circus work is very strenuous.Stage ready will require dedication, commitment, and practice.There are lots of jobs in circuses that don't require acrobatics or strenuous physical activities if you prefer not to perform.You could work on set design or production.The purpose of this article is to focus on circus performers.
Step 2: You should be fit and in shape.
A lot of circus acts need months of practicing and working out before they are ready to perform.You will need to be flexible and know how to rely on your body if you are doing acrobatics.A lot of upper body strength is needed for trapeze and similar acts.The stronger your body is, the less likely it will be to get injured in an act.If you're doing clowning or juggling, you don't need to be in shape to do it, but you must be fit enough to juggle quickly and keep your arms up.
Step 3: Think about what kind of work you want to do.
An actor auditioning to be part of a show in a movie is like a circus performer auditioning for a single circus.They can be part of their shows for a period of time even if they only stick with one company.You could be a part of an official circus.You have to be able to perform and be doing your best in order to stay in the circus.It will come down to personal preference when it comes to every argument.Are you interested in working for Cirque du Soleil?Something similar to Barnum & Bailey's?Do you want to perform at fairs and festivals?It is up to you.With bigger jobs and more glory comes more responsibility and commitment.
Step 4: The basics of an act should be created.
You need to have an act ready to pitch to your potential employers before you attempt to find a circus that will take you on.It's not necessary to have a background in dance, gymnastics, or something similar.You can develop a routine that you can perform at the drop of a hat.This will be a job.You will need to find a coach, get the right equipment, and set aside time each day to be the best in your field.It is a priority to be on circus-level.
Step 5: Your act needs to be perfect.
To get talent scouts on your team, you need an act to attract the right person.It is possible to practice with your coach at a first-class gym or your brother in the backyard.It should be something you can do in your sleep, where you know you won't hurt yourself and mistakes are rare.When you're called up, you want it to be perfect so you can be a substitute.The circus has to get you there in the first place if they are going to change it.
Step 6: You can make a demo tape.
If you want to apply for jobs like Cirque du Soleil, you need to make an auditioning tape.You can submit online forms for larger companies during certain times of the year.Make sure you showcase the best of your act, follow the appropriate guidelines, and make sure your tape is professional looking.Recruiters work for many circus acts.It's easier to make and find connections when you spend more time in the field.
Step 7: You should consider going to circus school.
There are legitimate, credible circus schools out there that are looking for students to teach with skills they can help hone.If there is one in your area, it is a great way to meet people that are already established in the field.There is a great job outlook.One of the biggest selling points of most schools is placing 100% of their graduates in jobs.
Step 8: There are corporate events, private parties and halftime shows.
A lot of people don't start playing with the big boys until they break in through making a name for themselves.Take all the opportunities you can.The high school talent show, your dad's business luncheon, or the halftime show at a football game are some of the things you will see.More people will take your act seriously if you build up your resume.Tell your friends and family that you did something.Private parties and local events can be booked by word of mouth.It can spread like wildfire and is one of the most reliable ways to market yourself.
Step 9: Consider doing long-term work on cruise ships.
Think of less traditional semi-related jobs like on cruise ships.The cruise line puts on a show for 6-9 months in which you work.It's a great way to get to one of the big, official circuses.Workaway is a website where you can sign up for a period of time and be part of the circus in exchange for room and board.It is a step in the right direction.
Step 10: There are circus festivals.
Those are a thing.The American Youth Circus Organization holds a festival in August.Some people are asked to perform and others are lucky enough to get a slot, but either way, you will be able to showcase your stuff and get seen.Get your name in the ring by applying early and talking to your coach, agent, or recruiter.It may cost you money initially, but it's a small sacrifice to make to be showcased.
Step 11: If you want to join a circus troupe, apply.
After building up your resume and having an act you can rely on, go for the big leagues.Prepare for the life of a circus performer by applying to the next variation of Cirque du Soleil.Is it possible that you made it happen?You won't hear from us for months if you apply.You should keep applying if you don't hear back automatically.Don't shy away from international work.
Step 12: You should live on the road.
Most circus hopefuls don't think about the fact that they'll be away from home and living out of a suitcase.Life offstage means hotels, vending machines, and sleeping in cars.Some people enjoy this life while others find it very challenging.You have to thrive in this setting to make it.It can be lonely as well.Your real family may be thousands of miles away, but you will develop a circus family.This is dependent on your contract.You should only sign up for a period of time.
Step 13: Understand what you're getting into.
Life in a circus is not always glamorous.If you're working with a traveling circus, you might have to deal with moving around a lot, and you will need to buy or make your own costumes.It takes a lot of dedication to work with circuses.Most odds and ends will be handled for you if you are working for a big business circus.If you're working on a smaller circuit, you may need to take some expenses on yourself.Consider how much it will cost to do something you love.
Step 14: Be sure to be determined.
You will be told to give up, people won't hire you, and you will get injured if you are a performer.It's important that you are able to push through the walls.You will be able to continue performing if you find a job that works for you.They don't make it on their first try.You have to hear rejections before you get your break.You have to trust that eventually it will happen, but it could take months or years.No one else will believe in you if you don't.
Step 15: Prepare for the physical demands.
Being a circus performer will end your career before you feel like you're old.Your body will be rung through the wringer when you do near the end of your run.If you need two knee replacements, you could be in tiptop shape.It will be hard, but hopefully the physical stress is worth it.Your body means a lot to you.You could be out of a job in no time if you don't take care of it.It's important to sleep, eat right, stay healthy, and stay safe.You don't want to compromise your career if you made poor decisions.
Step 16: Don't do it for money.
How does a circus make money?It mostly depends on the job, the show, and the length of time you're working.A circus might pay their performers at the end of the week or after the show is over.If you're a performer that hires out to circuses, you will mostly be paid after the job ends, although they can choose to pay you weekly, sometimes even after each show.You should want to work in a circus for the love of the work and the money at the same time.Every role is paid differently.If you are a featured performer like an acrobat or a contortionist, you could make between $40,000 and $70,000 a year.You are also getting free room and board.The perks keep on coming.