An American Bustle
San Francisco, California.
When is the last time that you thought about going to the circus? Anyone who has ever been to the circus will tell you that it is a “magical” experience that can only be obtained by watching the spectacle unfold with your own eyes. Sadly, for many of us, circuses are part of a dated and bygone era. The modern world constantly creates new entertainment for us to consume, while the circus seems to repeat the same acts. Using technology, the lights, vibrant colors, and alluring showmanship of the circus are all easily within reach. In this world of technology and ever more engaging media, is the magic of circus dead?
The most integral part of any show is its performers. San Francisco, a city well known for being a haven for passionate and creative minds, has always been a hub of artistic renewal. At the San Francisco Circus Center, it is easy to see that the circus, as an art form, is alive and well. It has a vibrant, healthy community of ambitious individuals working to improve their art. Many schools, like this one in San Francisco, have been established around the world to allow passionate individuals to hone their skills and become better circus performers. Not only do these schools empower people to express themselves through their act, but they also give us insight into the strength of an individual's passion.
What I found at the Circus Center was a large group of people who are happy to dedicate their lives to the circus. They are simply content with fulfilling their passion. Observing this group of talented performers striving towards their own happiness, rather than money or fame, showed me that circus has not lost its magic, nor is it dying. It is in fact evolving.