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A vibrant and multifaceted art form

Although everyone thinks they know what circus is, there is often a perception that it is a thing of the past. In reality, circus today is very much alive and remarkably diverse. From travelling families to individual artists, from traditional acts to experimental forms in theatres, from circus training to social circus: circus continues to evolve.

It encompasses a wide range of disciplines: acrobatics, juggling, balancing acts, clowning, and much more. What connects all these forms is the physical presence of the performer and the direct contact with the audience. This direct experience creates excitement and engagement. Things can go wrong, and that is precisely what makes circus intense and human. Artists tell stories with their bodies, bringing humour and emotion, and creating a shared moment with the audience. Learning circus offers space for everyone to grow and develop self-confidence.

Behind every performance lies great physical effort and years of craftsmanship. Circus knowledge is often passed on within families, companies and networks, through practice and experience, and through training in circus workshops and schools. This transfer takes place not only formally, but also informally: from generation to generation, from artist to artist.

Living and working together: circus is more than an art form; it is also a way of life.

Why seek recognition as intangible cultural heritage?

The call for recognition has not come out of the blue. It has grown from within the heritage community itself, from artists and stakeholders who hope that such recognition will raise the profile of the art form, raise awareness and encourage collective reflection on its future. “Sometimes people say: ‘But circus – does that even still exist?’ We want to challenge that perception and draw more attention to it,” was the sentiment expressed in the working group preparing the application.

Building the future together

Over the past period, a diverse group of circus professionals have been involved in a heritage conservation project alongside Circuscentrum and CEMPER. This project has brought people closer together: “Strangers involved in circus find one another and grow closer. We are now pulling together and listening to one another.” This collaboration demonstrates the strength of the sector. Despite the challenges, there is confidence and commitment to keeping circus alive and relevant.

The shared goal is clear: to work towards a sustainable future for circus and its inclusion in the Flanders Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage. An overview of recognised intangible heritage practices can be found at immaterieelerfgoed.be.

Read more about the full process involved in recognising circus as intangible cultural heritage

© Illustration - Judith Demets