ABSTRACT
Circus can be recognized in performances ranging from solo street performance with minimal staging to large visual spectacles with music, costumed choreography and technological effects. The diversity of this popular performance form makes it one of the most exciting and fascinating areas of cultural activity to explore and to analyse for its contribution to society. The introduction reflects the ongoing exchange between the editors, who hope to convey a sense of the dynamic vitality of the circus form and to stimulate further discussion. Audiences have an expectation that circus offers extended muscular action and physical expertise with dynamism that exceeds social norms and is framed in ways that will surprise and excite, and circus is particularly focused on direct engagement with audiences. Circus, however, is focused on performance rather than winning a competition, and on engaging, amazing and delighting audiences. The chapter also presents an overview on the key concepts discussed in this book.
