For many, the circus is a place of wonder, a realm where reality and illusion blend seamlessly. However, to me, the concept of a traditional circus is quite foreign and growing up in South Korea, I never experienced it, while I lived in South Korea. During the 1970s and 1980s, circuses in my country were gradually replaced by modern media such as television, film, and digital entertainment, ultimately disappearing from public life. Unlike in Europe, where the tradition of traveling circuses still endures, South Korea moved in a different direction.
My project led me to a circus family in the Offenbach area, where I was granted access to their world. From within the tent, I observed their daily routines, the meticulous preparations, and the hard work that goes into each performance. While the audience sees only the final product—a seamless and enchanting show— behind the curtain lies a life of discipline, dedication, and sometimes hardship. Setting up and dismantling the tent, caring for animals, rehearsing tirelessly, and traveling from town to town are just some of the challenges they face. Yet, despite the demanding lifestyle, there is a deep sense of community and passion among them.
Through my lens, I wanted to capture not only the grandeur of the performances but also the raw, unfiltered reality of life in the circus. The contrast between the magical world on stage and the more mundane aspects of daily existence intrigued me. While the circus may seem like a fleeting illusion to the audience, for these performers, it is their entire life—a tradition passed down through generations, a calling rather than just a profession.
This project is my attempt to bridge the gap between illusion and reality, to offer a glimpse into a way of life that is slowly disappearing yet remains deeply fascinating. By sharing their stories, I hope to shed light on the dedication and resilience of those who keep the spirit of the circus alive.
“Still, I Dance” is a visual essay that follows her journey as a circus artist, offering an intimate glimpse into a life shaped by tradition, passion, and the will to keep dancing—no matter what.
To maintain his imperturbable composure, he balances five or seven elaborately stacked chairs on his chin.
It’s not just a stunt. It’s a visual poem written in flame — dangerous, beautiful, unforgettable.
Scarlet and George embody what makes Circus Baldoni truly special: it’s not just about the show. It’s about family. About people who stand by each other — even after the curtain falls.
Beyond the red nose and makeup, Marcello is a dedicated artist who understands the deep emotional power of comedy. Through his performance, he creates unforgettable moments—making people smile, laugh, and sometimes even cry. He is not just a performer, but a symbol of the heart and soul of Circus Barus.
On his shoulder sits the future: his young daughter — the 8th generation of the Baldoni circus family. With curious pure blue eyes and hair tied in little ponytails, she watches them behind of the backstage.
In the timeless world of Circus Barus, tradition lives not just in performances, but in bloodlines. Founded in 1812, the circus has traveled across generations, passing down not only skills, but spirit. Today, Marco Giovanni Frank, the proud 7th-generation director, leads the show with heart, humor, and history.
In a touching and symbolic moment during the performance, Marco steps into the ring not alone, but with his grandson in his arms — the 9th generation of Circus Barus.
The crowd watches in awe as this quiet gesture speaks louder than any act: the future of the circus is here, wide-eyed and already under the lights.
This beautiful moment is not just family—it’s continuity, tradition, and the magic of a living legacy.
