Circuses nowadays rely almost entirely on human performers, which means clowns (an acquired taste) acrobats, jugglers, high wire artistes and similar. These have always been the best part of any circus, as watching displays of human skill and strength, performed with panache and with the prospect of disaster, is thrilling and endlessly fascinating. The Moscow State Circus was no exception, except that the clowns were accomplished tumblers as well, and their turns terrific to watch, even if not uproariously funny (clowns aren't).
I took three 9 year olds, and we all had a wonderful time. It was hugely entertaining, fast paced, and just the right length at a bit over two hours. The ingenuity in the routines was a delight to watch, and the skill and strength displayed remarkable - the standard was as good as Olympic class gymnastics, with the added bonus it was taking place a few feet away.