I did Barnum in 2012. It was a wonderful show to produce. The cast and audience loved it. I loved it too. One of my all time favorite shows. I do not have a fly system. I did not fly anyone. I didn't do any realized/legitimate circus acts. I created a clown group that did many things that was required by the original production. I used 6 circus cubes that spelled BARNUM and used it as the base of the tight rope and used rope for number of different scenes (tight rope, clothes line) and had the clowns as part of the scenery. I also used several exercise balls of various sizes as well as scooters, unicycles, hula hoops, etc. All of it gave the circus feeling. No need to do anything elaborate or too crazy. I think the show actually works best if simplified. I used the whole circus as a metaphor. One set and some creative placement of a few items and everyone was ready to join the circus. Best of luck with your production.
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John Rutherford
Rochester Hills MI
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Original Message:
Sent: 07-06-2014 13:42
From: Patricia Reeves
Subject: Barnum
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Patricia Reeves
Shreveport LA
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I am doing Barnum this year and hope to maybe have it adjudicated. There are major hurdles with the circus acts. Has anyone ever done this and does anyone have a lead on circus equipment rental. Our stage DOES NOT have a fly system so we have a challenge. Any helpful hints? I have the voices which is the major reason I'm doing this. My gorgeous opera singer for Jenny Lind, and the only guy with the pipes and personality to do Barnum are both graduating this coming year. It's now or never.