Alongside the straightforwardly artistic work, the skills of the acrobat, juggler and aerialist are in demand elsewhere, with a large amount of corporate work ranging from lavish gala dinners that require an astonishing visual act, to car launches, TV advertisements and trade shows.

There are also increasing opportunities for performers to create their own companies, allowing individuals to fully develop their own personal style.

Strong circus skills are only a part of the equation for success as a circus artist. They need to be balanced with creative flair and strong performance ability, and this has led to the development of professional circus schools.In the UK, the only degree courses are offered by London's Circus Space which is an affiliate of the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama and the European Federation of Professional Circus Schools. Those applying for the course may have developed some circus skills, for example at juggling clubs or on the further education BTEC course offered by Bristol's Circomedia. Many have a dance, gymnastics or theatre background.

Some former students of The Circus Space were performing this season in an aerial production of Shakespeare's Pericles at the Globe Theatre. Another featured in burlesque show La Clique in a magnificent mirrored wooden tent at the Edinburgh Festival - next stop Australia. Many work with innovative circus companies such as Canada's Cirque du Soleil (which has five permanent shows in Las Vegas alone!), France's Cirque Baroque and the Welsh No Fit State Circus. Circus is also a successful element of outdoor festivals such as the National Theatre's 'Watch This Space'.

For further information visit the following websites:

Academy of Circus Arts: www.academycircusarts.co.uk
Circomedia: www.circomedia.com
Circus Arts Forum: www.circusarts.org.uk
Circus Maniacs School of Circus Arts: www.circusmaniacs.com
The Circus Space: www.thecircusspace.co.uk
International Juggling Database: www.jugglingdb.com