Circus Performer Resume examples & templates
Copyable Circus Performer Resume examples
What's it like to defy gravity for a living while thousands hold their breath below? The world of circus performance is one of the few professional paths where "don't try this at home" is literally in the job description. Behind the sequins and spotlights lies a fiercely dedicated community of athletes, artists, and performers who train for years to perfect acts that last mere minutes. The modern circus landscape has evolved dramatically from the traditional big top, with contemporary circus arts growing by nearly 18% since 2015 as companies like Cirque du Soleil and smaller avant-garde troupes reimagine what circus can be.
Today's circus performers blend traditional skills with cutting-edge theatrical techniques, creating productions that speak to modern audiences while honoring centuries-old traditions. The rise of circus schools (there are now 24 accredited professional circus training programs worldwide) has created more
structured career paths in a field once dominated by family traditions and apprenticeships. As immersive entertainment continues to capture audience imagination, circus performers find themselves at the intersection of athletic prowess, artistic expression, and theatrical storytelling—a sweet spot that promises exciting opportunities for those brave enough to run away and join the circus.
Junior Circus Performer Resume Example
ELENA “TWIRL” MARTINEZ
Brooklyn, NY | (347) 555-8912 | elena.twirl@email.com | linkedin.com/in/elenatwirl | Instagram: @elena_twirls
Dedicated aerial circus performer with specialized training in silks and lyra, plus ground-based skills in contortion and acrobatics. Completed professional circus training at The Flying Academy and performed in 15+ shows across 3 states. Known for quick skill acquisition and creative choreography that blends technical precision with storytelling.
EXPERIENCE
Junior Performer, Skyward Circus Collective – Brooklyn, NY (Jan 2022 – Present)
- Perform weekly aerial silks and lyra acts in rotating variety shows (6-8 shows monthly)
- Collaborate with 4 senior performers to develop and perfect 3 unique group acts featuring synchronized sequences
- Manage personal social media content showcasing performance clips and behind-the-scenes training, growing following from 200 to 1,800 followers
- Assist with rigging setup and safety checks before each performance under supervision of technical director
Performance Intern, Cirque Lumineux – Boston, MA (Summer 2021)
- Trained 25+ hours weekly with company members while understudying for aerial ensemble
- Performed in 2 weekend shows as part of ground acrobatics ensemble and 1 show as aerial understudy
- Assisted costume department with repairs and maintenance of performance attire
- Participated in daily technique classes and specialized workshops in contortion and partner acrobatics
Student Performer, The Flying Academy Showcase – New York, NY (2020-2021)
- Selected for 3 end-of-term student showcases, performing original choreography on silks and lyra
- Collaborated with music students to create custom soundtracks for 2 original performance pieces
- Helped coordinate promotional efforts that increased showcase attendance by 32% compared to previous year
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Professional Circus Artist Certificate – The Flying Academy, New York, NY (2020-2021)
Specialized in aerial arts with secondary focus in contortion and flexibility
Aerial Arts Safety & Rigging Workshop – Circus Safety Coalition (March 2022)
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Dance – SUNY Purchase (2018-2020, incomplete)
Completed 2 years before transferring to circus training
SKILLS
- Aerial Apparatus: Silks, Lyra, Trapeze (beginner)
- Ground Skills: Contortion, Acrobatics, Partner Balancing
- Performance: Character Development, Stage Presence, Improvisation
- Physical: Flexibility, Upper Body Strength, Endurance (can perform 3-minute aerial routines)
- Technical: Basic Rigging Knowledge, Safety Protocols, Equipment Maintenance
- Creative: Choreography, Music Selection, Costume Design
- Languages: English (native), Spanish (conversational)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Physical Specifications: Height: 5’4″ | Weight: 120 lbs | Arm Span: 5’5″
Special Skills: Fire eating (beginner), Stilt walking, Juggling (3 balls)
Availability: Available for touring opportunities within North America beginning June 2023
Mid-level Circus Performer Resume Example
LILY SANTOS
Phone: (617) 555-4982 • Email: lily.santos@email.com • Boston, MA 02108
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lilysantos • Personal Website: lilysantosperforms.com
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Versatile circus performer with 5+ years specializing in aerial silk routines, contortion, and fire performances. Created over 75 unique performances for audiences ranging from 50 to 3,000+ people. Known for developing narrative-driven acts that blend traditional circus techniques with contemporary theatrical elements. Currently seeking to join a touring production where I can contribute my diverse performance skills while continuing to develop new artistic expressions.
EXPERIENCE
Lead Aerial Performer | Cirque Lumière | Boston, MA | May 2021 – Present
- Perform as principal aerialist in 7 weekly shows, executing complex sequences on silks, lyra, and trapeze
- Choreographed a signature 12-minute aerial silk routine that increased ticket sales by 17% for weekend performances
- Train and mentor 4 junior performers in proper technique, safety protocols, and artistic expression
- Collaborate with directors and musicians to synchronize performances with live musical accompaniment
- Reduced personal injury recovery time by 63% through development of specialized conditioning program
Ensemble Performer | Cirque Lumière | Boston, MA | Jan 2020 – May 2021
- Performed in ensemble aerial acts and ground-based acrobatic sequences for 5 weekly shows
- Mastered 3 apparatus transitions within performances (silk to lyra to ground)
- Participated in community outreach, conducting 18 workshops at local schools reaching 450+ students
- Assisted technical crew with rigging safety checks before and after performances
Freelance Circus Artist | Various Productions | Northeast Region | Aug 2018 – Dec 2019
- Performed specialized acts for corporate events, festivals, and private functions (avg. 6-8 bookings monthly)
- Developed a fire performance routine incorporating dance and object manipulation
- Built relationships with 12+ event production companies, securing repeat bookings at 74% rate
- Managed all aspects of business operations including marketing, contract negotiation, and accounting
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Professional Circus Arts Diploma | New England Center for Circus Arts | Brattleboro, VT | 2018
Aerial Dance Intensive | Frequent Flyers Aerial Dance | Boulder, CO | Summer 2019
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Dance | Boston Conservatory | Boston, MA | 2017
Wilderness First Responder Certification | NOLS | Current
SKILLS
- Aerial Apparatuses: Silks, Lyra, Trapeze, Rope
- Ground Skills: Contortion, Acrobalance, Partner Acrobatics
- Fire Performance & Safety Protocols
- Choreography & Movement Direction
- Physical Conditioning & Injury Prevention
- Theatrical Makeup Application
- Basic Rigging & Equipment Maintenance
- Music-Movement Synchronization
- Stage Presence & Character Development
- Spanish (Conversational)
PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS
- Featured performer, Boston Arts Festival (2022, 2023) – solo aerial silk act
- Guest artist, “Illumination” production at the Wang Theatre (2021)
- Cast member, “Winter Solstice” seasonal production (2019-2022)
- Performer and choreographer for “Elements” corporate entertainment series (2019)
Senior / Experienced Circus Performer Resume Example
MARCO PANZINI
Boston, MA • (617) 555-8421 • marco.panzini@email.com • linkedin.com/in/marcopanzini
Versatile circus performer with 11+ years of experience in aerial arts, acrobatics, and clowning. Known for flawless technical execution and captivating stage presence across 600+ international performances. Trained in multiple disciplines and committed to safety protocols while pushing artistic boundaries. Currently developing innovative aerial silk routines that blend classical techniques with contemporary storytelling.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Principal Performer & Aerial Director | Cirque Luminescence | Boston, MA | 2019 – Present
- Lead a team of 14 aerial artists while performing as featured aerialist in 3 signature productions
- Choreographed “Reverie” – an aerial silk production that increased ticket sales by 27% and received critical acclaim from Performing Arts Monthly
- Created comprehensive safety training program that reduced on-set injuries by 61% over 3 years
- Mentor 5-7 emerging performers annually through structured apprenticeship program; 4 former mentees now hold principal roles in major productions
- Collaborate with costume designers and technicians to develop specialized equipment for elaborate performances
Featured Performer | Cirque Nouveau Monde | Montreal, Canada | 2016 – 2019
- Performed specialized aerial acts (silks, lyra, trapeze) in 8 countries across 243 shows with audience capacity of 2,000+
- Maintained rigorous training schedule of 28 hours weekly while touring internationally
- Adapted performances for varying venue specifications and weather conditions with 99.7% show completion rate
- Participated in community outreach, conducting 37 workshops for disadvantaged youth
Ensemble Performer | Carnival Spectacle Entertainment | Various Locations | 2012 – 2016
- Progressed from ground-based acrobatics to specialized aerial performances within 18 months
- Performed in 4 different productions as both supporting and featured cast member
- Mastered 6 distinct circus disciplines including contortion, juggling, and basic clowning
- Assisted technical crew with rigging setup and safety checks (yeah, those skills came in handy!)
EDUCATION & TRAINING
École Nationale de Cirque | Professional Circus Arts Program | Montreal, Canada | 2010-2012
Advanced Aerial Arts Certification | New England Center for Circus Arts | 2014
Specialized Training:
- Master Class in Russian Bar Technique with Anton Chekhov (not the writer, the acrobat) | 2018
- Advanced Rigging Safety & Technical Production | Aerial Arts Alliance | 2017
- Physical Theater & Character Development | Dell’Arte International | 2015
SKILLS & SPECIALTIES
- Aerial Specialties: Silks, Lyra, Spanish Web, Trapeze, Aerial Straps
- Ground Acts: Contortion, Hand-balancing, Partner Acrobatics
- Performance: Character Development, Audience Engagement, Improvisation
- Technical: Basic Rigging, Equipment Maintenance, Safety Protocols
- Languages: English (Native), French (Fluent), Spanish (Conversational)
- Additional: Makeup Application, Basic Costume Repair, Dance (Ballet, Contemporary)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Special Projects: Currently developing “Cloudbound” – a solo aerial production combining silk work with projected digital elements
Physical Capabilities: Front/back splits, 12 consecutive one-arm handstands, 3-minute dead hang
Professional Memberships: American Circus Educators Association, Aerial Arts Alliance, Performers Safety Network
How to Write a Circus Performer Resume
Introduction
Landing your dream circus job isn't just about nailing the audition—it starts with a resume that makes hiring managers, talent scouts, and artistic directors sit up and take notice. I've helped dozens of performers from Cirque du Soleil hopefuls to traditional circus artists craft resumes that showcase their unique talents. The circus world is competitive (just try getting a callback from Circus Vargas or UniverSoul Circus these days), but with the right resume, you'll have a much better shot at getting your foot in the tent flap.
Resume Structure and Format
Keep your circus resume to one page unless you've got 10+ years of professional experience across multiple shows or companies. Most casting directors spend about 6-8 seconds scanning your resume before deciding whether to continue reading!
- Use a clean, readable font like Arial, Calibri, or Georgia (11-12pt)
- Include plenty of white space—your resume should breathe like you do after a triple somersault
- For circus roles, consider adding a small professional headshot (1" x 1") in the top corner
- Save as both PDF and Word formats (some smaller circuses still request Word docs)
- Name your file clearly: "FirstName_LastName_Aerialist.pdf" (or whatever your specialty)
Profile/Summary Section
Your opening act matters! In 2-4 sentences, capture your performance style, specialty acts, and what makes you unique as a performer. This isn't the place for modesty—this is your spotlight moment.
Don't just say you're an "experienced aerialist"—specify your apparatus, signature moves, and performance style. "Seasoned silks performer with 7 years of experience specializing in dramatic drops and fluid transitions. Known for combining traditional techniques with contemporary dance elements at heights up to 40 feet."
Professional Experience
List your performance history in reverse chronological order. Unlike corporate resumes, circus employers want to know specific acts, skills demonstrated, and the nature of each show.
- Include company names, show titles, tour locations, and dates
- Specify your role (Lead Contortionist, Ensemble Acrobat, Featured Juggler)
- Mention audience sizes, notable venues, or high-profile events
- Quantify when possible: "Performed 438 consecutive shows without missing a performance" or "Mastered 7-ball cascade within 18 months"
- Include any understudy positions or roles where you stepped in last-minute (shows versatility)
Education and Certifications
Circus arts have become more formalized, so include your training background. Did you study at Ecole Nationale de Cirque in Montreal? Train with a former Moscow Circus performer? Complete a summer intensive at NECCA? List it all here, along with:
- Safety certifications (rigging awareness, first aid)
- Specialized workshops or masterclasses
- Cross-training credentials (dance, gymnastics, theater)
- Languages spoken (super important for international troupes)
Special Skills Section
This is where circus resumes differ dramatically from corporate ones. Create a detailed skills inventory that lists:
- Primary circus disciplines (aerial, acrobatics, equilibristics, etc.)
- Specific apparatus you've mastered (trapeze, Chinese pole, German wheel)
- Secondary performance skills (mime, clowning, fire manipulation)
- Technical abilities (rigging knowledge, prop construction)
- Performance enhancers (musical instruments, vocal training, character work)
ATS and Keywords
Even circus companies use Applicant Tracking Systems now! Especially larger outfits like Ringling Bros. (before they closed) and contemporary circus producers. Incorporate keywords from the job listing, such as "ensemble work," "touring experience," or "family-friendly entertainment." If they mention needing performers comfortable with "audience interaction" or "improvisational skills," make sure those exact phrases appear in your resume if you have those abilities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Listing every single gig without curating (that birthday party from 2014 probably isn't relevant anymore)
- Being vague about your specialties (say exactly what you do best)
- Forgetting to include height, weight, and relevant physical stats (still standard in performance fields)
- Omitting links to your performance reel or portfolio (crucial for visual assessment)
- Using corporate-speak instead of authentic performance language
Before/After Example
Before: "Worked as juggler in circus for 3 years. Good with clubs and balls."
After: "Comedy juggler with Flynn Creek Circus (2019-2022), performing 5-club patterns and 7-ball cascades in featured 8-minute solo act. Incorporated audience volunteers in 73% of shows, including handling live chainsaws for finale sequence that became show's promotional highlight."
Remember that your resume is just your opening act—it should make them want to see the main performance. Update it regularly as you master new skills or complete notable runs. Break a leg out there!
Related Resume Examples
Soft skills for your Circus Performer resume
- Collaborative team synergy – working fluidly with diverse performers while maintaining timing cues across acts (developed through 5+ years in ensemble productions)
- Spatial awareness and nonverbal communication – ability to “read the room” and adjust performance energy to match audience engagement
- Crisis management under pressure – maintaining composure when equipment malfunctions or unexpected variables arise mid-performance
- Cross-functional relationship building – fostering connections between technical crews, creative directors, and fellow performers to streamline rehearsals
- Mentorship capabilities – guiding junior performers through technique refinement and performance anxiety management
- Receptiveness to live feedback – quickly incorporating director notes between shows to elevate performance quality
Hard skills for your Circus Performer resume
- Aerial silk rigging and performance (8+ apparatuses)
- Fire manipulation techniques with poi, staff, and fans
- Acrobatic sequence choreography
- Stilts walking at heights up to 12 feet
- Trapeze techniques (static, flying, and dance)
- Stage makeup application for character transformation
- Prop construction and maintenance
- Spotting and safety protocols for aerial acts
- Performance lighting cue management