Eric Bates: The Contemporary Circus Handbook
On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews author of The Contemporary Circus Handbook, Eric Bates. For those looking for a peak option to inspire Circus and entrepreneur friends and family for the New Year.
Why did you decide to write The Contemporary Circus Handbook?
Eric explained that the book stemmed from his career experiences and frustrations while creating circus shows. He and his team at Cirque Barcode encountered numerous challenges during the creation of their first show, Sweat and Ink. From logistical hurdles to creative struggles, Eric realized there were limited resources for circus professionals trying to produce their own shows. During the pandemic, Eric interviewed many artists and creators, which revealed commonalities in their processes and struggles. This inspired him to write a comprehensive guide to help others navigate the complexities of creating and producing circus shows.
How did you structure the book, and who is your target audience?
The book is designed as a step-by-step guide, covering the entire process of creating a circus show—from funding and creative exercises to team collaboration and marketing. Eric shared that the structure came from identifying recurring themes and advice from his interviews with industry veterans. Although it’s primarily targeted at circus professionals, the book offers universal lessons on collaboration, project management, and creativity, making it useful for artists, entrepreneurs, and anyone managing creative projects.
What are the most important elements for a circus show to succeed?
According to Eric, belief in your idea is critical. This passion sustains creators through the long process of fundraising, team-building, and selling the show to theaters. Additionally, collaboration and adaptability are key. He emphasized that while artistic talent is important, elements like lighting, pacing, sound design, and effective marketing are equally crucial to elevating a performance. For long-term success, balancing creativity with logistical and business acumen is vital.
What advice do you have for artists transitioning to producers?
Eric acknowledged the steep learning curve for performers who step into production roles. He highlighted the importance of understanding the broader picture—budgets, logistics, and team dynamics—while staying true to the creative vision. The book offers practical guidance, from developing a business plan to assembling a supportive team. Eric also emphasized the value of seeking feedback and collaborating with others who bring different skills and perspectives to the table.
Can the principles in the book be applied beyond circus arts?
Absolutely. Eric shared that many readers, even outside the circus industry, have found the book valuable. The lessons on teamwork, resource management, and creative problem-solving apply to various fields, from starting a business to producing films or running community projects. Eric hopes the book empowers creators to overcome obstacles and bring their ideas to life.
Key Insights from the Discussion
- Passion Fuels Perseverance
Believing in your idea is crucial for overcoming challenges in funding, assembling a team, and convincing audiences of its worth. - Collaboration and Feedback Matter
Successful shows require teamwork and diverse perspectives, especially during the creative process. - Flexibility and Adaptability
Staying open to feedback and willing to pivot is critical to refining a production and addressing unforeseen challenges. - The Importance of Planning
While creativity is the heart of any show, logistical planning, financial management, and marketing are the backbone of success. - The Broader Implications
The book’s principles extend beyond circus arts, offering a blueprint for collaborative and creative endeavors in various industries.
The Contemporary Circus Handbook
Eric Bates started his Circus Arts career with Circus Smirkus, and went on to graduate from The National Circus School of Montreal in 2011. He has since performed for the world’s leaders in a private show with Cirque du Soleil at G7, on Broadway with The 7 Fingers, and in 40 countries around the world. He has a Guinness World Record for his juggling, as well as two medals and the audience choice award at the Cirque de Demain Circus Festival for his cigar box juggling and russian bar acts. Eric is the cofounder of Cirque Barcode, with whom he has created 3 shows: Sweat & Ink, Branché and See You Down the Road. Lastly, Eric Bates is the author of The Contemporary Circus Handbook, which pulls back the curtain on the process of making shows of all different sizes.
The Contemporary Circus Handbook Collaborators:
@modernvaudevillepress Publisher , The Contemporary Circus Handbook.
@thomwalljuggler runs @modernvaudevillepress
@kimzyn & @domaskbz – Editors of the Handbook
Spotify / Apple Podcasts / YouTube
Shenea was also a finalist on America’s Got Talent and has continued to be a featured artist with prominent circus entertainment companies worldwide.
Editor's Note: At StageLync, an international platform for the performing arts, we celebrate the diversity of our writers' backgrounds. We recognize and support their choice to use either American or British English in their articles, respecting their individual preferences and origins. This policy allows us to embrace a wide range of linguistic expressions, enriching our content and reflecting the global nature of our community.
🎧 Join us on the StageLync Podcast for inspiring stories from the world of performing arts! Tune in to hear from the creative minds who bring magic to life, both onstage and behind the scenes. 🎙️ 👉 Listen now!
