Circus Oz to close after 44 years in blow to Melbourne arts community

Circus Oz is set to shut for good, with 23 staff and more than 100 performers losing their jobs in a major blow to Melbourne’s arts scene. This is why.

Circus Oz, started 44 years ago, is set to shut for good. Picture: Stuart McEvoy

The iconic Circus Oz is closing up for good, marking the end of an era for Melbourne’s live performance scene.

In a shattering blow to the arts community, the circus’ board revealed it could not meet new government funding requirements and was left with no option but to shut.

The Herald Sun has been told that 23 employees and more than 100 circus artists will lose their jobs as soon as January, with the board working through a timeline for closure.

An independent review by the Australia Council for the Arts and Creative Victoria found that while the circus had a rich and vibrant legacy, there were systemic issues holding the company back.

To continue receiving public funds the 44-year-old institution was told to “broaden membership criteria to diversify representation” – essentially expanding the skill base and demographics of the company.

Scores of artists and employees will lose their jobs at Circus Oz. Picture: Tony Gough

Circus Oz had just launched new shows for 2022. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

Despite the board agreeing, a poll put to company members on proposed reforms and responses revealed the changes would not be supported.

As a result, the board is now finalising employment contracts, commitments and program obligations.

In a statement, the board acknowledged ”this is a devastating blow to the current team of creatives, circus artists and employees”, adding they “understand what a deeply sad time it is for the Circus Oz family”.

Circus Oz had just launched new programs and 2022 shows.

In its statement, the board added that the circus “played a major role in the development of circus and physical theatre in Australia”, and prided itself on leaving “a significant artistic and creative legacy that has shaped the artistic expression and ambitions of many”.