Step right up. But this is no ordinary circus

WHAT do you get when you mix glitter, greasepaint, decades of wisdom, and a touch of mischief?

- ANNIE DORASAMY

A project called “Life as a Circus” and a group of older adults who prove that the spotlight doesn’t fade with age.

Created as a joyful celebration of life and identity, Life as a Circus invited elderly participants from Tafta homes to step into the magical world of circus characters: ringmasters, clowns, jugglers, and more, each role tailored to reflect their personality and journey.

The campaign’s creator, Jane Linley-Thomas, media personality and stylist together with artist Jonathan Mazoue, photographer Brett van Dort and makeup artist Kendyl Benjamin, conceptualised a project that would create a space where the elderly could step into roles that spark imagination and remind them, and us, that life at any age can be “full of colour, play, and wonder”.

“The circus has always carried a sense of magic, wonder, and joy. It felt like the perfect mirror for their lives, full of triumph, hardship, humour and love. Each participant became a character in the circus, not to escape their reality, but to celebrate it,” said Linley-Thomas, a former East Coast Radio presenter.

She said what began as an idea for bold portraits quickly evolved into something far more profound. She imagined costumes, colour and playfulness as a way to spark joy.

“But as the project unfolded, it became about so much more, it was about honouring each person’s story and finding the perfect circus role that brought that to life,” she said.

Each participant was chosen in collaboration with Tafta, drawing from different branches to create a vibrant tapestry of personalities. Some residents were instantly excited; others needed a little encouragement. But once the costumes went on and the camera began to click, something magical happened.

“They lit up,” she recalled. “Even those who were shy at first ended up laughing, posing, and embracing the moment.”