The 2017 blockbuster film, The Greatest Showman, has been one of those rare films that has truly captured the hearts and minds of a generation. Full of vibrant colour, instantly iconic imagery and of course jam packed with infectious songs that just can’t help but get stuck in your head for days. So it’s no wonder that having a Greatest Showman inspired event have become one of the most popular themes for a party over the last few years.
We have compiled a list of the best must have entertainment options to make your Greatest Showman inspired party “the greatest show on earth”.
1. A Ringmaster Host
A must have for a good Greatest Showman inspired event. A ringmaster host is the glue that holds the whole event together and provides that iconic circus feel.
They don’t have to look as rugged or handsome as Hugh Jackman but they do have to be able to captivate an audience.
Along with making important announcements, It’s the job of the ringmaster to build the energy in the room and engage with the audience, he will be the one that gets everybody excited and ready to watch the show.
In the days before modern lighting, it was the ringmaster’s job to direct the attention of the audience to where they needed to look next. As the previous act dismantled their equipment and the next act began to set up theirs the ringmaster would fill the time by delivering an elaborate and extravagant introduction; telling of the amazing and wondrous skills his cast has to offer, their tale of triumph and tribulation that has been building up to this very moment.
Most performances at this time were mute due to the lack of amplification, so the ringmaster’s big, booming voice was an important tool to cut through the noise and excitement. It’s all just part of the showmanship, but what else would you expect from one of the most memorable and often underrated acts under the big top.
2. Fire Performers
Why not inject some heat into your event with a fire performer, the perfect blend of beauty and danger.
Fire performers are a great way to add that extra WOW factor, with their fire eating and fire breathing skills they are sure to catch your guest’s eye. If your venue is suitable you could even step it up a notch by booking a fire duo, or even an entire fire troupe – their large scale fire shows are spectacular enough to blow the socks of even the most jaded of audience members.
With their amazing skills they seem almost impervious to flames but don’t let that fool you – remember, don’t try this at home folks. Leave it to the professionals.
3. Popcorn & Candy Floss
Nothing says circus quite like popcorn, why not give your guests a sweet snack to nibble on.
The unmistakable smell of popcorn is truly irresistible and fills your venue with aroma, also they are totally iconic which can only be a good thing when planning an event with such a strong theme.
Hiring a popcorn machine has never been so easy and they are perfect for birthday, wedding and corporate events. Just remember to check with your guests for any allergies as popcorn is often cooked in coconut oil.
Similar to popcorn, candy floss is ideal for your Greatest Showman inspired theme, especially if you are not planning to treat your guests to a full meal – its great as a snack and can be nice and informal. It also offers a huge selection of flavours, enough to suit any guest. From classic pink cherry flavoured candy floss all the way up to white Bailey’s Irish cream flavoured candy floss for the adults. The menu has endless possibilities only limited by your imagination.
Why not check out Oddle Entertainment’s Twitter feed for fun and creative ideas you can use at your Greatest Showman themed event.
4. Contortionists
Arguably the most classic of circus acts, a great contortionist will leave your guests jaw’s firmly resting on the floor. Because of this we highly recommend your Greatest Showman inspired event has one.
There are a number of different factors that may contribute to why some people are more flexible than others. Genetics, gender, exercise history and other reasons contribute greatly to a person’s flexibility. With this in mind a contortionist’s ability to twist and contort their body into the most peculiar of positions will have your guests scratching their head in amazement, even more impressive when you consider the average person struggles to even touch their own toes (myself included).
5. Aerial Performers
No Greatest Showman inspired event can be complete without an aerial performer showing off her acrobatic feats. The hit song ‘Rewrite The Stars‘ has got to be one of the most memorable songs in the entire film so its no wonder why aerialists are so popular with this theme.
Your venue not suitable for aerial?
Think again, you can always request a freestanding aerial rig which requires no permanent fixtures to the venue itself.
A freestanding aerial rig is a fully self contained portable apparatus which can be assembled / disassembled relatively quickly.
6. Jugglers
A fun and energetic way to really add that iconic circus feel is with a juggler. The perfect act that lends itself to both walkabout and stage entertainment its one of the most flexible acts there are.
Why not entertain your guests on their arrival by having a fire juggling show outside the main entrance on the front lawn?
Or how about some mesmerising contact ball juggling during the drinks reception? Or even a fun interactive juggling stage show directly after the meal?
7. Snake Charmers
A sure fire way to amp up your adrenaline is to come face to face with your fears, and a snake charmer can help you do just that.
Most people don’t actually ever get close enough to a snake to touch it in their entire life time but when booking a snake charmer you not only get a fascination animal (or two) you also get an expert animal handler with years of experience and knowledge so rest assured, you’re in good hands.
Your guest can take photos, pose for selfies and even stroke the snakes – plus with your very own snake expert on hand they can ask all the questions they want!
8. Sword Swallowers
A great way to add a little danger to your event is by booking a sword swallower, this ancient and deadly art form is seen on TV and in films a lot but no one ever really expects to see it live at an event they are attending.
It will certainly leave your guests talking about it for years to come, especially if you happen to be the volunteer chosen to come up on stage and remove the swallowed sword for the performers throat.
Now that’s what we call a ‘Kodak moment’!
9. Decorations
Everyone loves the circus, but decorating doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re partying outdoors, why not hire a Big Top tent? if you’re partying indoors, you can create your own Big Top tent using fabric. You can create your very own circus with a little imagination and patience.
Greatest Showman inspired Circus props often include fun house mirrors, carousel horses, balloon arches, carnival bunting, circus barrels, ticket booths and more. Of course not forgetting the classic vintage style poster, as seen in the movie, when P.T Barnum is scouting for unique acts, with the following message “Wanted! unique persons and curiosities. Male and female, young or old”.
Need more inspiration?
Why not check out our Greatest Showman Inspired Circus Package page for more ideas, or read some of our Case Studies from real life previous events we’ve help put together.
Or check out our handy little video below!