Professional Circus Performer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of entertainment, the spotlight on professional circus performers has never been brighter.

The circus industry continues to evolve, and with each evolution, the demand for talented individuals who can captivate, thrill, and safeguard our love for circus arts intensifies.

But let’s pull back the curtain: What’s truly expected from a professional circus performer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the essence of this role,
• A casting director sketching out the ideal performer,
• Or simply fascinated by the enchanting world of circus arts,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we unfold a customizable professional circus performer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or entertainment career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Professional Circus Performer Duties and Responsibilities

Professional Circus Performers engage audiences with their diverse skills, which can include acrobatics, juggling, clowning, and animal handling.

They are responsible for rehearsing routines, working in collaboration with other performers, and maintaining their physical condition to perform at their best.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Perform rehearsed routines to entertain and engage audiences
• Collaborate with other performers to choreograph and perform group acts
• Maintain physical conditioning and stamina to perform acrobatics, aerial routines, and other physical acts
• Rehearse routines and performances to ensure smooth execution
• Develop new acts and routines to keep performances fresh and exciting
• Follow safety procedures to prevent injuries
• Engage with audiences to build a rapport and heighten the entertainment value of performances
• Help with the set-up and tear-down of circus equipment and props
• Participate in promotional activities to generate interest in upcoming performances
• Receive and respond to coaching and direction from circus directors or choreographers

 

Professional Circus Performer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a talented and dedicated Professional Circus Performer to join our team.

The Circus Performer will be responsible for practicing, planning, and performing acts of dexterity, agility, coordination, or other skills in front of an audience.

Skills might include juggling, acrobatics, aerial acts, clowning, or animal training.

Candidates should be able to perform under pressure, have physical stamina, and be creative in their performances.

 

Responsibilities

• Practice and rehearse acts regularly to ensure top performance
• Perform circus acts in front of a live audience, following routine or improvising
• Follow safety procedures and guidelines at all times to avoid accidents
• Participate in costume fittings and makeup application
• Ensure props and equipment are in good working condition
• Collaborate with other performers to create new, exciting acts
• Attend promotional events and performances as required
• Take part in physical conditioning and training to maintain high level of fitness

 

Qualifications

• Previous performance experience, preferably in a circus or similar environment
• Exceptional skills in a particular area such as juggling, acrobatics, aerial acts, clowning, or animal training
• Physical stamina, flexibility, and strength
• Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with other performers
• Willingness to travel and perform in different locations
• First aid and CPR certification may be required

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Travel expenses

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Professional Circus Performer
• Work Environment: Varied settings including circus tents, theaters, and outdoor venues. Extensive travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Circus Director or Performance Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience, skill level, and act type, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Varies greatly depending on act and experience, from $25,000 to $70,000 per year
• Location: Varies – Performers may be required to travel nationally or internationally.
• Employment Type: Full-time or Contract
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a video showcasing your act, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Professional Circus Performer Do?

Professional Circus Performers work in a variety of settings, from traditional big top circuses to modern contemporary circuses and even at themed events or parties.

They can work individually or as part of a group performance.

Their main job is to entertain the audience through a variety of acts such as acrobatics, juggling, aerial performances, clowning, magic tricks, and animal handling.

These performances typically require a high level of physical strength, flexibility, and coordination, as well as creativity and a good sense of timing.

Circus performers often spend considerable time in rehearsals, practicing and perfecting their routines to ensure a flawless and exciting performance.

They also need to maintain their physical condition and skills through regular training.

In addition to performing, they may be responsible for the maintenance and setup of their equipment, props, and costumes.

Safety is a major concern, so performers must also ensure their acts are performed in a safe manner, using appropriate safety gear and following all safety guidelines.

Depending on the act, circus performers may also interact with the audience, creating a memorable and engaging experience.

They are also often required to attend promotional events or media interviews to promote their shows.

Behind the scenes, circus performers might collaborate with directors, choreographers, and other performers to create new performances and routines.

They may also need to learn new skills or acts, as the world of circus performance is constantly evolving.

 

Professional Circus Performer Qualifications and Skills

A successful circus performer must possess a range of physical abilities, creative skills, and mental resilience.

The qualifications and skills required include:

• Physical fitness and agility are critical as many performances require strength, flexibility, and coordination.
• Training in specific performance skills, such as acrobatics, juggling, aerial work, or clowning.
• Artistic creativity for developing engaging performances that captivate and entertain audiences.
• Ability to work well in a team, as many circus performances are collaborative and require excellent timing and coordination with other performers.
• Strong communication skills to understand and follow directions, and to connect with the audience.
• Resilience and mental toughness to cope with the physical demands of performance, the risk of injury, and the pressure of performing in front of an audience.
• Discipline and dedication to engage in regular practice and continual learning to improve performance skills.
• Understanding of safety procedures and the ability to perform potentially dangerous acts in a safe manner.
• A background in dance, theatre, or gymnastics can be beneficial, but specific circus training is often required.

 

Professional Circus Performer Experience Requirements

Aspiring Professional Circus Performers often start their training at a young age, attending workshops, camps, or specialized circus schools.

These programs provide foundational skills in areas like acrobatics, juggling, clowning, and aerial performance.

Some performers gain experience through participation in amateur performances, community circuses, or school productions.

This provides a practical application of learned skills and helps to build confidence in performing in front of an audience.

Professional Circus Performers with 1 to 3 years of experience have usually honed a particular skill or act, whether it be contortion, trapeze, or tightrope walking, and have participated in a variety of performances.

They have also developed strength, flexibility, and endurance, as well as the ability to work in a team.

Performers with more than 3 years of experience often have extensive performance experience, have established their unique act or character, and have a solid understanding of safety protocols and procedures.

They may have also traveled with a circus troupe and performed in a variety of settings.

Those with more than 5 years of experience might have leadership experience, such as directing shows or coaching younger performers.

They may also be skilled at multiple circus disciplines and have a strong presence and reputation in the circus community.

 

Professional Circus Performer Education and Training Requirements

Professional Circus Performers do not have specific educational requirements; however, they typically have extensive training in their area of performance, such as juggling, acrobatics, or aerial stunts.

Prospective circus performers often begin training at a young age in disciplines such as gymnastics, dance, or theatre arts.

This background provides the foundation for the physical skills and performance abilities required in the circus.

Various circus schools and programs around the world offer specialized training for aspiring circus performers.

These programs generally focus on developing physical strength, flexibility, and technical skills, as well as stage presence and artistic expression.

Students can also learn specific circus skills and acts such as trapeze, tightrope walking, clowning, and more.

In addition to formal training, many circus performers gain experience through performances in community or school productions, or by joining a youth or amateur circus group.

Once hired by a professional circus, performers usually continue to train and develop their skills under the guidance of experienced performers or coaches.

They may also need to train in safety procedures and first aid, particularly if they perform dangerous acts.

Although not required, some circus performers may choose to pursue advanced training or certifications in their specific area of performance, to enhance their skills and employability.

 

Professional Circus Performer Salary Expectations

A Professional Circus Performer can expect to earn an average salary of $40,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary greatly based on the performer’s specific skills, the scale of the circus, location, and the performer’s level of experience in the industry.

 

Professional Circus Performer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Professional Circus Performer need?

Professional Circus Performers need to have excellent physical conditioning, flexibility, and strength.

They also need to be highly skilled in their particular discipline, whether that be acrobatics, juggling, or animal handling.

They should also possess performance skills such as acting, dancing, or musical ability.

Other valuable skills include teamwork, as many acts require precise coordination with others, and risk management, to maintain safety during dangerous stunts.

 

Do Professional Circus Performers need any specific qualifications?

While there are no specific qualifications required to become a Professional Circus Performer, most performers have years of training in their particular discipline.

Many attend circus schools or participate in intensive workshops and training programs.

Experience in dance, gymnastics, or martial arts can also be beneficial.

Performers may also need to obtain certain certifications depending on their act, such as animal handling licenses for those working with animals.

 

What should you look for in a Professional Circus Performer’s resume?

Look for evidence of extensive training in their discipline, performance experience, and any special skills such as acrobatics or juggling.

Also, check for any awards or recognitions they may have received.

References from previous circus companies or performance groups can provide valuable insight into the performer’s reliability, teamwork skills, and work ethic.

 

What qualities make a good Professional Circus Performer?

A good Professional Circus Performer is dedicated, disciplined, and has a high level of physical fitness.

They should have a passion for performing and be able to connect with audiences.

They should also be comfortable with risk and be able to manage stress effectively, as performing can often involve dangerous stunts under high-pressure conditions.

Good teamwork skills are also crucial as many acts require close collaboration with other performers.

 

Is it challenging to hire Professional Circus Performers?

Hiring Professional Circus Performers can be challenging due to the specialized skills required and the relatively small pool of qualified candidates.

It can also be difficult to find performers who are a good fit for the specific needs of your circus, as each performer brings their unique style and expertise.

It’s important to provide a supportive and creative environment to attract and retain top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shone the spotlight on what it truly means to be a professional circus performer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about executing impressive stunts.

It’s about crafting captivating performances, one breathtaking act at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive professional circus performer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into the ring.

But don’t stop here.

Take the leap with our job description generator. It’s your perfect assistant for creating spot-on job listings or finessing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every act contributes to the grand spectacle.

Let’s create that magic. Together.