The Greatest Show On Earth

Death-defying might not be enough to fully encapsulate the work that Circus of Altrades does. The directors of Singapore's homegrown circus company return to solid ground to tell us more about the business of stunts.

- WORDS FARHAN SHAH PHOTOGRAPHY DOMINIC PHUA/STUDIO DAYDREAM

THEY EAT FIRE, soar into the air, and accomplish feats of strength and balance that literally drop jaws. Yet, for Circus of Altrades, their most challenging battles are not within the performing space, but outside of it. The Projector's shuttering, Sandbox Training Ground's financial insolvency, and other stories have dampened enthusiasm for the performing arts in Singapore. Still, co-founder Koh Jia Sheng and creative director Phiz Nasrudin forge ahead.

“We often dream far bigger than what our resources currently allow. But we must also be aware of how we position ourselves, how we invite the public into what we love, and how we educate people on what a circus is. Passion helps. But, without structure, it burns out fast. That's where my partnership with Phiz becomes essential. He holds the heart of the arts in our space, while I think about sustainability, pathways, and how to keep the lights on long enough for creativity to flourish,” says Koh.

The duo shares more about Circus of Altrades and how Singapore can still be fun—if we allow it.

How did you first become interested in the circus?

PHIZ: I started out as a street dancer. Then, in 2018, I went to Burning Man and everything changed. I was completely mesmerised by the flow artists there—the way light and fire could bend, breathe, and transform into movement. I came home wanting to bring that same magic to Singapore and into my own artistry.