The difference between modern and traditional circuses.
Marco (M): A real-life human show is a great escape from the daily realities so for the audience to enter into the ' good' old times can be a very new exciting experience.
Ismail (I): It's not much of a difference – each circus has a story to tell, we enhance the story line and create a magical theme each year, infusing traditional and modern circus elements. We aim to touch all ages through our show and let them see the value of it.
The challenges of bringing the Swiss Dream Circus to Malaysia.
M: There’s a different organisation culture and mentality here from Switzerland but it helps that Ismail is local and capable of managing that aspect.
i: Challenges differ every year, in terms of managing manpower, ticket sales, set-up or dismantling of our big top due to the unpredictable weather as well as the equipment for the sound and lights.
What goes on behind the scenes of putting together a majestic show, each night.
M: The circus is my life, but the glamourous is just a little part of the circus. It’s not always easy behind the scenes, be it financially or simply technical or logistic difficulties. It also costs a lot to bring high quality performers over to Malaysia. It’s all worth it as they are professionals and give their very best. Circus is a passion, and it’s important the performers love their job in order to deliver a great experience every night.
I: We go through the selection process together but it's his magic of curating performers that draws the audience to come back for more. Behind the scenes is always a beautiful chaos but with a touch of professionalism, responsibility and most importantly safety, you’re guaranteed an amazing show every night.
Beyond the glamour and dazzle, the reality of being a circus performer.
M: Travelling the world and doing the job of bringing joy to the audience is great. It’s the difficulty of performers as freelancers, when they are constantly looking for new jobs. Backstage, these performers are like regular people who go through typical ups and downs in life.
I: The passion of a performer fuels them to explore circuses around the world.