Is the Circus Dead? Big Apple Circus Says No

First, the Big Apple Circus declared bankruptcy in early 2016. Then, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus announced it would close after 146 years. 

It seemed like circus might be dead.

But after a year of no performances, Big Apple has returned to its hometown of New York, where it was founded in 1977. The assets of the former non-profit were bought at auction by a for-profit entity called Big Top Works and now the tent has gone up in Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center.

Director Mark Lonergan says all circus companies are trying to figure out how to engage contemporary audiences. Some companies are experimenting with adding a narrative, but Big Apple is focusing on the performers, whom he compares to are Olympic-caliber athletes. 

The day before its first public performance, one performer wandered across the ring, carrying a costume. Stagehands were rigging lights, seamstresses were attaching the last beads to the ringmaster's coat, and riders were grooming their horses. Even acrobat Nik Wallenda was helping out. He wasn't rehearsing his internationally-famous high wire act — he was raking the sawdust of the ring, to prepare it for a rehearsal.

One of the artists excited about returning is veteran performer Barry Lubin, who played Grandma the Clown at Big Apple for 25 years. He said that the intimate space of the Big Apple tent is what makes this one-ring circus special to the audience.

"Their excitement transfers to the ring, and it's this cycle of energy and excitement and love really that makes for a great experience," Lubin said.

A seamstress attaching the last few beads to the ringmaster's coat.

(Jennifer Vanasco)

A trunk backstage at the circus.

(Jennifer Vanasco)