Benjamin C. Robertson: Intermission – The Resilience of Circus Performers

On this episode of the Circuspreneur  podcast, host ​⁠Shenea Stiletto interviews Founder of Silver Tree Films, director and co-producer in partnership with the ​⁠Las Vegas Circus Center, of the circus documentary  “Intermission,“ Benjamin C. Robertson.

What motivated you to produce Intermission, and how did the project come about?

The idea for Intermission came from the owners of the Las Vegas Circus Center, Michelle and Brandt, who saw the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on circus performers. They wanted to shed light on the struggles, resilience, and innovation within the circus community during that time. As a filmmaker, I was drawn to their vision and the opportunity to tell the stories of these incredible artists. The documentary captures not only their challenges but also their creativity and humanity.

What impact did the pandemic have on performers and circus organizations like the Las Vegas Circus Center?

The pandemic was a major disruption. Performers who spent years perfecting their craft suddenly found themselves out of work, with some taking jobs like delivering pizzas just to make ends meet. Despite these struggles, many kept training and innovating to stay ready for when opportunities returned. The Las Vegas Circus Center became a crucial lifeline, providing a space for performers to continue honing their skills. Its owners worked tirelessly to keep it open during this difficult time, showcasing the deep dedication within the circus community.

What does the documentary reveal about the circus world that audiences might not know?

Intermission offers a rare glimpse behind the makeup and costumes, revealing the humanity of circus performers. It highlights their personal lives, families, and the immense dedication required to sustain their art. The film also explores the close-knit nature of the circus community, where generational families often work together and everyone is interconnected. It emphasizes the unique challenges these artists face and their incredible resilience in adapting to unprecedented circumstances.

Do you see Intermission as a tool to advocate for the circus industry?

Absolutely. The documentary sheds light on the vital role the circus industry plays in entertainment and the struggles it faced during the pandemic. By putting faces to the performers and showing their dedication, it humanizes the industry and emphasizes the need for systemic support. It also serves as a call to action to create safeguards for artists and circus organizations to ensure they can weather future global crises without the devastating impacts we witnessed.

What message do you hope audiences take away from watching Intermission?

I hope audiences gain a deeper appreciation for circus performers—their artistry, hard work, and humanity. The film illustrates their triumphs and challenges, showing how they persevered through a time of uncertainty. It also underscores the importance of supporting live entertainment and the individuals who bring it to life. Whether it’s attending a local circus or advocating for systemic changes, there are many ways to show support for this incredible industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience in Crisis
  The documentary captures how circus performers navigated financial and emotional struggles during the pandemic, showcasing their resilience and creativity.
• The Humanity Behind the Makeup
  Intermission offers an intimate look at the lives of performers, highlighting their personal connections, family ties, and dedication to their craft.
• Advocacy for the Arts
  The film serves as a powerful advocacy tool, emphasizing the need for systemic support to protect the industry from future disruptions.
• Role of the Las Vegas Circus Center
  As a central hub for training and community, the center played a vital role in supporting performers and maintaining the industry’s heartbeat during the pandemic.
• Call to Action
  Audiences are encouraged to support circus arts, whether through attendance, advocacy, or raising awareness about the challenges performers face.

INTERMISSION
“Intermission” is a compelling documentary that delves into the lives of artists and performers in the vibrant Las Vegas circus scene as they navigate the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Featuring intimate interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, the film captures the resilience and creativity of these performers as they confront closures, adapt to new realities, and ultimately find innovative ways to keep the spirit of the circus alive. This poignant exploration highlights both the struggles and triumphs faced by the community, offering a unique window into the impact of global crises on the world of live entertainment.

Website:
https://intermission.movie

Silver Tree Films

Listen to this Episode on:

Spotify / Apple Podcasts / YouTube

Shenea Stiletto

Acrobat, Podcaster, Circus Artist, Handstand Instructor -United States

Shenea Stiletto (Shenea Booth) is a two-time World Champion Gold Medalist in Acrobatic gymnastics, a USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame Member, and World Acrobatic Society Inductee. Her career includes a decade of collaborations with Cirque Du Soleil including the coveted hand balancing role as "The Promise" in Varekai, becoming the first-ever African American female soloist to play a lead character in a Cirque Du Soleil production.
Shenea was also a finalist on America’s Got Talent and has continued to be a featured artist with prominent circus entertainment companies worldwide.

Shenea's profile

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