100 Years of Circus Posters

Here are some examples of circus posters through history and the development through the years.
These are some examples of classic screen printed posters, shown here are quite advanced examples of multilayered and multicoloured circus posters that would have been used to grab the attention of the intended audience.
These posters would be displayed among many other posters, and the posters job is to jump out and catch the eye of potential audience members.

Since these posters are quite bright and eye catching they have a higher chance of selling tickets, thus making them more money allowing them to create more exciting and eye catching posters.
People may think that posters like these are merely a decorative  add on to the circus tent and arena but the posters are where it all begins.

Circus Posters

Over time advertising for circus' has been similar although instead of screen printing their posters circus'  digitally print their posters.
Although posters have changed dramatically in their way of demonstrating what the audience should expect. Instead of expecting a lion jumping through a flaming hoop or an elephant dancing in a pretty tutu the audiance is expecting crazy contortionists and exciting unicycling.

The advancement of technology has helped companies to explore deeper meanings into their posters. Older posters were at a disadvantage of lack of technology and materials, yet still managed to create distinct and iconic posters. 

Posters today have the technology to create bold and sharp images that engage and intrigue the audience. 

As you can see the style of posters have changed, some might say for the better others might say that the traditional posters are classics. I'll let you make up your mind on what style you prefer. 

Steampunk Circus'

Circus Oz started their steampunk voyage with their 2011 tour 'Steampowered' That consisted of amazing sets that transformed the modern setting into a broken down rusty looking ally way. 

What makes Circus Oz stand out from similar circus' is they don't just play music over the speakers, oh no they have a band on stage and the ringleader doubles as lead vocals, and this is no regular band with regular instruments, oh no they have instrument that look like they have been pulled right out of the 1800's with the powerful vocals the show blows the audience away.

Themed Circus'

Over the years the perspective on circus' have changed. Through the 1800's circus' traditionally consisted of an animal trainer, trapeze artists, fire breathers, type-rope walkers and a ringleader. Usually located in a large striped tent.

The cliché has changed over time due to the urbanisation of circus traditions. No longer do they have fake looking weight lifters or bearded women but talented contortionists and trapeze artists that will amaze the audiences with their amazing skills. New circus themes that are trending include Steampunk, Gothic, Urban and Traditional.