Along with the remake of the cult horror ‘IT’ there never seemed a more appropriate moment to indulge in the alternative lifestyle of the circus. Santus circus in Raynes Park therefore stands to deliver beneath a towering canopy hoisted on Prince George’s playing fields- a rather stark object against Merton’s stretches of soil .The glow of Scarlett bulbs spilling over terrifically illustrated faces of performers, the peeling navy printed cosmos stretched above the ring in this slightly derelict, vaguely sleazy endeavour. Most of us will be familiar with the nostalgic climate the circus creates accompanied by an almost haunting melody as we are all victim to the eccentric charm of the ringleader- Ernst Santus. The circus itself is family run, a travelling business of inheritance that we are all quite unused to where Ernst’s son Lucien adopts all roles whether it be clown or burger flipper. This set up I’m sure appears old fashioned as Santus relies on garish posters plastered around shopfronts and word of mouth.
The acts take to the ring, exercising various dazzling displays of physicality, bringing my company to the edge of his seat, proving that the circus can strike an interest in everyone- even teenage boys. Harry, aged 16 tells me ‘I really thought the circus was for toddlers, and it is in a way, but I have to admit I did enjoy it’. And that’s just the thing, isn't it? How the circus, often rather an outré venture sparks a peculiar delight; regardless of your age or occupation we are all stripped back just for a moment as we watch a sequinned torso swing back and forth inside this makeshift arena.
So there we have it, really it only costs £7 to experience this quirky, somewhat endearing show ringside. Well, that is if you aren't interested in slightly over priced helium balloons or candy floss.
By Lucy Sutton, Ursuline High School
