Masters of Mirth Exhibit

Illustrated clowns posing on top of a blue pattern

Masters of Mirth

Feld Visitor Center and Exhibit Hall

On display through September 2028

Home » Explore » Our Treasures » Masters of Mirth Exhibit
Black and white image of numerous clowns posing for a photo

Send in the Clowns!

Clowns have been an essential part of the American circus for the past 200 years. This exhibit celebrates the art of clowning and the countless individuals who have provided laughter for children of all ages at the circus.

Baby George Sun
Black and white image of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus clowns
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus clowns
Steve Copeland and Ryan Combs, both dressed in clowning makeup and costumes while posing for the camera
Steve Copeland and Ryan Combs

Clowning Around

Dozens of costumes, shoes, props, and trunks offer a glimpse into the lives of these madcap mirth makers. Learn more about the different types of clowns, jargon used by clowns in the circus business, and what was taught at clown college!

An exhibit stand at Circus World featuring makeup products that clowns would use
Black and white image of Otto Griebling, dressed as a clown, posing next to a bird
Otto Griebling
Black and white image of Paul Jerome, Felix Adler, Lou Jacobs, and Paul Jung, all dressed as clowns
Paul Jerome, Felix Adler, Lou Jacobs, and Paul Jung
Peggy Williams and Duane Thorpe, dressed in red and blue stripped clown clothing and makeup
Peggy Williams and Duane Thorpe
Karen DeSanto, Brian Searle, and Greg DeSanto, dressed in clown makeup and making silly faces for the camera
Karen DeSanto, Brian Searle, and Greg DeSanto
Image of part of the Clowning exhibit at Circus World featuring clown clothing
Part of the clowning exhibit at Circus World
Lots of clowning costumes in part of the clowning exhibit at Circus World
Part of the clowning exhibit at Circus World featuring a red dotted clowning costume

LEARN MORE CIRCUS HISTORY

From Clowning Exhibits to Flea Circuses, learn more about the many people and experiences that have made the Circus entertainment for generations.

PLAN YOUR VISIT