How to Start a Circus Business in 2024
Last Updated: 12/17/2023
Starting a Circus Business: A Guide for Aspiring Ringmasters
Ever dreamed of running away with the circus? I know I have! There’s just something magical about the circus that makes you want to join in on the fun. And while massive traveling tent circuses may be disappearing, there are still totally ways for everyday folks like you and me to start our own circus business. Intrigued? Read on and I’ll explain step-by-step how to turn your circus dreams into a reality.
Picking a Circus Concept
First things first — decide what kind of circus you want to create. Here are some options to consider:
- Old-fashioned 3-ring circus with all the fixins’ — clowns, acrobats, animals, you name it. You’ll need a big top tent and space for multiple rings. Very nostalgic!
- Dinner circus — mix circus performances into a mealtime experience. It modernizes things up a bit!
- Circus school — teach recreational circus classes in things like acrobatics, trapeze, juggling. Lower risk and cost to start.
- Specialty circus — focus on one thing like clowning or magic. Helps you stand out.
- Circus entertainment company — skip running a circus yourself and just book talent for events.
Make sure to research the rules in your area about operating a circus. Permits and stuff can get tricky.
Need a Circus Business Plan?
Create a custom business plan with financial projections and market research in minutes with ProAI’s business plan generator.
Crafting a Business Plan
I know, writing a business plan sounds super boring. But having a solid plan makes a huge difference in whether your circus succeeds or flops. Be sure to include:
- Day-to-day operations — what needs to happen regularly to run things smoothly?
- Marketing — how will you promote your circus and sell tickets? What’s your brand?
- Money matters — estimate costs to start and keep things running. How many tickets do you need to sell to cover expenses?
- Staffing — figure out what types of employees you’ll need, from performers to managers.
Having a clear roadmap avoids a lot of headaches down the line. Don’t skip this part!
Finding the Cash
Starting any small business takes some initial funding. Ways to scare up money for your circus ambitions:
- Personal savings — chip in your own cash if possible.
- Business loans — shop around at banks for small biz loans to buy equipment and such.
- Partner up — consider bringing on an investment partner to help fund things.
- Crowdfunding — create a campaign asking the public to donate to your circus.
- Grants — apply for arts-related business grants focused on live performances.
Get creative chasing down the dollars to make your circus dreams reality!
Buying or Renting Gear
You’ll need some specialized equipment for your circus. Here are some things to look into purchasing or renting:
- Tents
- Stages
- Lights and sound equipment
- Concession supplies like popcorn machines
- Tables, chairs
- Electrical generators
- Vehicles and trailers for transport
Search for used gear and trailer rentals to save money. Focus on versatile items with multiple uses.
Finding a Location
Gotta have a space to put on your circus! Options for venues include:
- Outdoor spaces like fairgrounds, parks, fields. Permits are usually needed.
- Indoor spots like convention centers, gymnasiums, theaters. Book off-season when rates are lower.
- Private land for longer term setups. Look for landowners open to multi-year lease agreements.
- Storage facilities — essential for all your equipment and vehicles when not being used.
Ideally find a space with existing amenities like parking, power, and bathrooms. Have a backup rain location if performing outdoors. Reserve your spot ASAP since popular venues get snatched up fast.
Building Your Circus Crew
Of course, you’ll need talented performers! Places to find them:
- Circus schools — graduates wanting pro jobs.
- Festivals and events — network and recruit in person.
- Industry job boards — post positions online.
- Social media groups — connect with the tight-knit circus community.
Hire coaches to train staff in new skills like stilts or plate spinning.
And don’t forget all the other positions it takes to run a circus, from ticket sellers to set designers to accountants. Hire support staff with relevant experience.
Spreading the Word
Heavy duty marketing will be key to getting audiences in the seats. Some proven promotions tactics:
- Vibrant social media campaigns — drive excitement and intrigue!
- Local media stories — get news coverage leading up to opening.
- Posters and billboards around town.
- Radio and TV ads — especially on family-friendly stations.
- Newspaper ads and calendar listings — target weekends.
- School field trip specials — offer discounted weekday shows for students.
- Free previews — give a sneak peek before opening.
- Discounted deals — like Groupon offers to draw first-time ticket buyers.
- Cross-promotions — partner with local businesses on special offers.
Hype it up all over town so everyone hears your circus is rolling into the area!
Wowing the Crowds
With your team and marketing engine humming, it’s showtime! Tips for delighting spectators:
- Make the entrance and box office super visible and fun. Have greeters welcome guests.
- Offer family-friendly ticket deals like bundles and free toddler seats. Upsell concessions for added income.
- Have cool pre-show entertainment like face painting and balloon artists.
- Keep shows fast paced with short acts under 5 minutes to maintain energy.
- Spotlight local performers when possible — helps draw their communities.
- Update acts each season so repeat visitors see fresh entertainment.
- Mingle after shows to make visitors feel special.
It’s hard work putting on an amazing circus, but staying dedicated to delighting your audience will keep the turnstiles spinning. Let creativity shine, have fun, and your circus biz will flourish in no time!
Need a Circus Business Plan?
Create a custom business plan with financial projections and market research in minutes with ProAI’s business plan generator.
Circus Financial Forecasts
Startup Expenses
Monthly Operating Expenses
Revenue Forecast
Circus Business FAQ
Q: How much does it cost to start a circus?
A: Startup costs can range from $50,000 to $500,000+ depending on the scale of your operations. Key expenses are venue rentals, equipment, salaries, marketing, insurance, permitting and more. Starting small by teaching recreational classes or booking private events can lower initial costs.
Q: What skills do I need to run a circus?
A: Running a circus requires a mix of creative vision, business acumen, and leadership abilities. You’ll be directing operations, managing staff, making executive decisions, and also developing show concepts. Event planning, budgeting, promotion, and people management skills are vital.
Q: How do I find and hire talented circus performers?
A: Post job listings in industry publications, on job boards, and social media groups frequented by performers. Attend circus festivals and events to network and recruit in person. Check local circus schools and training programs for recent graduates. Offer competitive pay, benefits, and flexible contracts to attract the best talent.
Q: What type of insurance do I need?
A: You will likely need general liability insurance at a minimum to protect against property damage, accidents, injuries etc. Consider additional coverage such as weather-related event cancellation insurance. Your insurance needs depend on your circus activities. Consult professionals to ensure you have adequate coverage.
Q: How long does it take to plan a circus?
A: It takes 6–12 months minimum to plan a full circus production. Venues and talent get booked well in advance. You’ll need ample time to design concepts, secure licensing, hire staff, rent equipment, build props/sets, market the show, and rehearse acts. Start planning as early as possible.
Q: Can I get business loans or grants for a circus?
A: Yes, there are small business loans and grants that may fund a circus venture. Look specifically at arts, live performance, and entertainment funding programs. Present a solid business plan and be prepared to personally guarantee any loans. Grants and loans can provide startup capital to get your circus going.
Q: What permits and licenses will I need?
A: Permits for venue operation, ticket sales, business licenses, concessions and food service, noise variances, outdoor events, building occupancy, and more may be required. Work with local municipalities early in your planning process to determine which circus permits apply.
Q: How do I stand out from other circuses?
A: Offer novel acts, themes, and interactive elements that other circuses don’t provide. Keep your circus fresh by changing up productions seasonally. Foster a welcoming, inclusive environment. Promote cultural diversity and celebrate local communities. Stay engaged with patrons and supporters. Put customer experience first.
