Circus
Roving circuses, in one form or another, have been enthralling cities and towns throughout the United States since the late 18th century. Despite the emergence of sophisticated, high-tech shows in the 20th century, a contingent of more modest regional companies preserves many of the age-old traditions. These circuses, in which multi-talented crews appear under a canvas tent, their acts illuminated by a single spotlight, travel from town to town eking out just enough profit to survive the season. Yet we owe them a debt of gratitude, for it is they who maintain the essence of the past while adapting to the present. The Flynn Creek Circus, documented here, is one such special survivor. I am fortunate that my small California town has been a stop on their seasonal circuit.
-Clark James Mishler
