Circus

Circus is an intriguing six-part series from PBS that aired in 2010. This show takes viewers on a profoundly personal and in-depth journey into the world that many people have heard about but fewer have experienced: the offbeat, vibrant and perpetually moving universe of the circus. However, Circus is much more than just a show exploring the vibrant hues of this unique life; it delves into the real stories behind the magic, the dreamers and schemers, the performers and audience all wrapped together in a land constantly on the move.

This gritty, endearing series presents a demystified version of an old-world American circus nestling within the modern ambiance of the country. Circus follows the Big Apple Circus— a one-ring, nonprofit outfit renowned for its humanitarian focus and intimate performances. It shines a spotlight on the diverse troupe of performers including clowns, acrobats, jugglers, and trapeze artists, from the beginning of their season in rural Virginia all through to the high stakes of performing in the Big Apple itself.

Circus is not another glitzy reality TV competition or elaborate expose on the secrets of the magic performed on stage. Here, the magic is in the very breath of the culture it represents. The series covers the emotional and professional dramas that flare up under the Big Top along with the physical threats that these performers have to face with every stunt they put up. It goes way beneath the surface to reveal the hard work, dedication, and spirit of camaraderie that is the essence of circus life.

What makes Circus so captivating is its broad and yet personal approach. The humor, drama, thrills don't come from elaborate scripts or supernatural plot elements but from the real-life situations of the circus artists, many of whom have devoted their lives for the love of this transient world. It dedicates enough time to showcase the highs and lows of these performers who often have to juggle personal issues with their professional obligation of entertaining with commentary from the ringmaster, the artistic director, performers, and circus staff.

Importantly, Circus also gives due credit to those behind the scenes. The show features moments with the unsung heroes of this enthralling world: the roustabouts setting up the massive big top, the trainers, the costume designers, all playing crucial roles in making the show what it is. Viewers also get to sneak a peek into the lives of the athletes and their unique bonding moments, from the desert trekking American tightrope walker to the first black ringmaster of any major circus.

Viewers might find the dynamics of a circus company surprising. Circus presents the entity as a constantly traveling village, where everyone from performers, rigging crew, cooks, tent hands, and even a preschool teacher for performers' kids live, work, eat, and celebrate their triumphs and failures together. Personal snippets, including romantic tangles, illnesses, fear, professional jealousy, and the constant pressure of trying new stunts, all create an intense atmosphere that resonates with more urban and conventional settings.

The look and feel of Circus form a huge part of its appeal. It uses no voiceovers or a central narrator, letting the stories, situations, and the characters speak for themselves. The camera plays a silent observer capturing everything from the rehearsals, daily meals, riffing sessions, stellar on-stage performances to the tearful farewells at the end of the season. It uses close-ups, wide angles, slow-motion sequences, drone shots effectively to create a sense of immersion and intimacy. Despite the extensive footage, encountering the charming goofiness, gravity-defying stunts, and heart-tugging moments never feels forced or contrived.

Circus comes together as a wonderful human story about people chasing their dreams under the vibrant panorama of a circus life. It's a heartwarming symphony of spectacular stunts, bold colors, joyful music, and lots of heart, making art out of everyday chaos. Exploring the genuine excitement and an undeniable sense of community that hallmarks the circus world, the show brings viewers closer to understanding why 'circus life' is more than just an occupation; it's a way of life.