How To Know Famous Circus Families

The circus has evolved over the centuries as a source of entertainment and recreation for people young and old alike. We line up and buy tickets to see jugglers and clowns in brightly colored tents, or be bewildered and amazed by magic tricks and acrobat performers. Aside from the main events consisting of parades and performances, carnivals and game booths are also made available to the public.  

The concept of a circus hasn't changed much from its humble beginnings 4,000 years ago. In Greece, wandering bands of entertainers go around palaces and amphitheaters. Elaborate costumes, jewelry and makeup were worn by ropewalkers, tumblers, dancers and even trained animals such as bears and lions. The same can be seen in Egypt, China and Rome based on this timeline:

1. Commedia dell' Arte families. During the Renaissance period, from the 1400's to the 1600's, circus families began to form in England and France. In the 1500's, these families told folk tales in mime. They also wowed the crowd by performing puppet shows and walking on tight ropes. Entertaining was a family tradition in Italy as well. 
2. Franconi Dynasty. In the mid 1700's Philip Astley paved the way for the birth of the modern circus. He traveled to France and performed for the queen. Eventually he established 18 circuses in Europe. Also around that time, Antonio Franconi and his two sons leased from Astley a circus operation that eventually made the Franconi dynasty one of the most famous circus families in Europe. 
   
3. Barnum and Bailey. In the US, John William Ricketts was one of the pioneers in the circus business. It became such a big success that even George Washington became a fan by attending numerous circus shows. In the 1800's, a businessman named P.T. Barnum opened a circus with James A. Bailey. Their circus eventually became known as "Barnum and Bailey, The Greatest Show on Earth." One of its features was an exhibit of the fattest man on earth, giants, midgets, Siamese twins, the oldest woman on earth and a supposed mermaid. Eventually, the Ringling Brothers, prominent circus owners at that time, bought Barnum and Bailey to form their enormous circus of today.
   
4. Cirque du Soleil and Cirque Eloize. Today, in Europe, the circus is seen as a form of art, and people from around the world flock to see modern versions of these traditional entertainers. Combining dance, mime, acrobatics and magic, entertainers leave the crowd in awe practically every time they step in the spotlight. Two prime examples are Cirque du Soleil and Cirque Eloize. Audiences can also enjoy three-ring spectacles such as the Barnum and Bailey Ringling Brothers Circus.  

And just recently, on May 24-25, children from Army families together with local Korean neighborhood families enjoyed the Army's static display held on Camp Mobile, South Korea. The whole crowd responded with great excitement as they watched a 90-minute show consisting of 21 circus acts. Adults and kids also got hooked on the traditional carnival rides, exhilarating contests, and food booths. Both Americans and Koreans left the venue with all smiles while promising that they'll meet again, same time, and same place. 

Whether you prefer modern showcases of art and talent or enjoy the traditional theatrical productions, circuses still serve as an effective amusement for all.