We trace the history of fit-ups – the touring companies that took theatre to a pre-television Ireland’s rural areas – and meets a festival organiser keeping the tradition alive

Following a spate of accidents during the Globe of Death, Douglas McPherson traces the 120-year history of the high-octane motorcycle stunt and discusses its appeal and dangers with Big Kid Circus rider Julia Kirilova

As one of Britain’s oldest circuses stops using posters, Douglas McPherson speaks to industry insiders about the changing face of advertising for big tops

Circus manager who became head of charitable organisation Circus Starr

Circus boss, performer and animal trainer who entertained audiences in the UK and across the globe

From circus to Strictly to magic and more, Blackpool is synonymous with entertainment. Douglas McPherson goes back in time at Showtown, a new museum showcasing the town’s glory days as the seaside home of showbusiness

Ireland’s Daring Dames Festival puts the spotlight on female circus stars, often performing acts traditionally associated with men. Organiser Dea Birkett and some of its stars talk to Douglas McPherson about challenging gender stereotypes in the big top and beyond

Trapeze artist, teacher and founder of Above & Beyond Aerial Theatre

French showman and award-winning equestrian circus performer

Magician who invented many illusions and had a long and varied showbusiness career on stage, TV and in circus

Show-woman, aerialist and elephant-handler, who devoted her life to running Ireland’s oldest circus

The driving force behind Gandey World Class Productions, who became youngest circus proprietor and was a former clown and knife-thrower

More than 100 years on, new show Laurel and Chaplin: The Feud explores the relationship between Britain’s biggest comedy stars and why they lost touch as they rose to fame. The producer Jon Conway talks to Douglas McPherson

As Circus Funtasia celebrates 10 years on the road, director Tracy Jones tells us about how it all began, surviving tough times and what lies ahead

Father of Iranian circus and strongman who performed in more than 37 countries