Big Top Basics
This is the large, colorful tent where a circus performs.
What is the Big Top?
These performers are known for throwing and catching balls, clubs, or rings.
What are jugglers?
This gentle giant was once the star of many circuses, but most are no longer used in shows today.
What is the elephant?
This man is often called the “father of the modern circus” in the late 1700s.
Who is Philip Astley?
This country is home to Cirque du Soleil, a modern circus known for acrobatics and art.
What is Canada?
The name for the area in the center of the tent where the acts perform.
What is the ring?
These acrobats swing from high bars and catch each other mid-air.
Who are trapeze artists?
These spotted cats were often trained to jump through hoops of fire.
What are Lions or Leopards?
The circus that became known as “The Greatest Show on Earth” was started by this showman.
Who is P.T. Barnum?
This South American country’s circus tradition often includes gauchos and horse acts.
What is Argentina?
A circus without animals is sometimes called this type of circus.
What is a contemporary or human-only circus?
This performer walks on a rope or wire high above the ground.
What is a tightrope walker?
Horses in circuses often wear these decorative items on their heads.
What are plumes or feather headdresses?
This word means traveling from town to town to perform.
What is touring?
The “Moscow State Circus” is from this country.
What is Russia?
This person is in charge of announcing acts and keeping the show moving.
Who is the ringmaster?
The clown with a big white face and fancy clothes is called this type of clown.
What is a whiteface clown?
Sea lions in circus acts are known for balancing this object on their noses.
What is a ball?
Before tents, circuses were often performed in this type of building.
What is an amphitheater or arena?
The “Flying Wallendas” are a famous high-wire family from this country.
What is Germany?
The three colors most often used in a traditional circus tent.
What are red, white, and blue?
This strongman act might involve bending metal bars or lifting heavy weights.
What is a strongman performance?
This famous animal act featured trained bears riding bicycles.
What is a bear act?
In the 1800s, the circus traveled mainly by this form of transportation.
What is the train?
This Asian country’s circuses are famous for acrobatics, balancing acts, and contortion.
What is China?