by The Economist
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| The circus will celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2018. In the second instalment of our new series of films about some of the big themes of the coming year, we look at its cultural impact
Click here to subscribe to The Economist on YouTube: http://econ.trib.al/rWl91R7 Ever thought of running away to the circus? This woman did. In 2018, it will be her job to lead a year of astounding acts to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the circus. The allure of running away and joining the circus has been a fantasy for countless children. Dea Birkett actually did it. She hitched a caravan to her car and drove to Italy, where she was told she could get work. So started a love affair that would change Dea’s life. In 2018, it’s the rich history of the circus that she’ll be putting in the spotlight with acts across the UK and Ireland to mark the 250th anniversary of it’s birth. From its humble roots on the banks of the River Thames, it rapidly spread. Astleys first tour overseas was in Ireland. From there he toured Europe and it later spread to America. You’ll struggle to find a country that hasn’t been touched by a circus. More recently, the circus has come under fire for its use of animals but performances have always pushed the boundaries. Even with all its innovations the circus is an art form that has retained much of its original appeal. In 2018 the circus will take pride of place within the popular culture that it’s helped shape. Cirque du Soleil, a Canadian reinvention of contemporary circus now pulls in crowds of 10m a year. Daily Watch: mind-stretching short films throughout the working week. For more from Economist Films visit: http://films.economist.com/ |
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