Beyond the Banners: A Look at How the Circus Impacted the Disability Community
Beyond the Banners: A look at how the circus impacted the disability community
Thursday, August 27
7 – 8 pm
$5 for Members | $25 for Non-Members
Circus sideshows invited crowds to explore the more wild and odd side of life and used banners to invite the curious into a world seemingly different to their everyday lives. The sensation these sideshows relied on however often came from taking advantage of a person with a disability. At the same time, many of these performers were able to build independent and happy lives through the work opportunities circuses provided.
Join Jason Harris for a look at performers beyond their banners and the complex impact the circus has had on the history of disability in America. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the start of the program. A virtual viewing option is available for this talk – registrants will receive a zoom link the day of the program.
Coming soon! Freaks & Sideshows: American Circus Banners 1920 – 1970 opens 7/30/26.



