Circus

Zippo’s circus tent on the seafront, Brighton

Zula the acrobat

training after the last performance

The Messoudi family of acrobats and jugglers

dismantling the big top

A selection of documentary photographs of Zippo’s Circus shot during a two week period in Brighton, East Sussex.
It’s a very physical and timetabled lifestyle. Everyone helps to assemble and dismantle the circus together from venue to venue. The performers play multiple roles before and after their performance, serving popcorn and drinks, backstage work, music… There are usually three performances a day and little time in between. The acts originate from all over the world. 
Photographs shot on 35mm black and white film.
All photographs © Bip Mistry 2008

 

Colour images uploaded for Virgin Trains Hotline magazine art director and editor…
Images shot on Mamiya C330f medium format film camera using colour negative film.