Open air circuses with acrobats, chariot races bareback riders, and comedy acts were popular in ancient Rome. In the 18th century fixed the building were used, and in the early 19th century travelling circuses appeared in Europe and America. Troupes move from place to place, setting up a large tent, or "big top". The most famous American circus proprietor was Phineas T. Barnum (1810-91). His shoes were spectacular, with trick riding, juggling, trapeze acts, tightrope walking, strong men, and freak show, in which Siamese twins, Giants or bearded ladies were often paraded before the curious crowd. Since 20th century, all human Chinese and Russian curcis troupes such as circus oz, ra ra zoo and arcaos, whose acts have included juggling with chainsaw and jumping over blazing motorbikes.
I have watched many of this on tv but I haven't seen them personally even once.