Old Moscow Circus Turns 135 Years Young

The Old Moscow Circus opened the doors to its permanent premises on Tsvetnoy Boulevard on Oct. 20, 1880. Its founder Albert Salamonski, a former rider and gymnast, attracted the best horse acts and phenomenal performers from all over the world. The audience space expanded, as did the circus repertoire — elaborate pantomimes and acts for children were added.



The Circus was nationalized in 1919, becoming the first Moscow State Circus, and it ran uninterrupted throughout World War II. Theatrical production expanded and in 1946 the Clown Studio was inaugurated. One of Russia's greatest clowns Yury Nikulin, was schooled there and performed from 1960 on until being appointed Chief Producer of the Old Moscow Circus.



The final performance in the old circus building was in 1985, before a new building, with significant technological upgrades, was built upon the old site. Today, more than 2,000 visitors can enjoy the Old Moscow Circus.



The Old Moscow Circus has been entertaining crowds for 135 years. Here is a selection of behind-the-scenes photographs of circus clowns, acrobats and animals.