A circus troupe is navigating its own tightrope as the industry faces pressure from soaring fuel prices, with staff reporting abuse from strangers at service stations. Diesel for their generators has become so difficult to obtain that performers from Circus Royale say they are frequently stopped and verbally attacked while refueling.
Verbal abuse at petrol stations
“What the f**k? Why you take too much?” is the kind of abuse they endure, according to staff. Diesel powers the show’s trucks and generators, with costs skyrocketing.
“Just our generators alone used to be about $2,500 a week. That’s gone up to about $5,500,” said Circus Royale owner Damian Syred. The circus has placed a sign explaining that 25 people rely on the generators, but it doesn’t always help.
Fuel price impact on the industry
Conflict in the Middle East has driven up fuel prices. Although diesel has dropped about 60 cents per litre, it remains higher than two months ago. Performers report that friends in other shows are losing work as the industry tightens.
“A lot of the circuses are closing down due to fuel prices. They just can’t afford to keep running,” said aerial artist Zoe Armytage.
Legal fuel purchases
What the circus is doing is completely legal. There are no restrictions on the amount of fuel—even diesel—that can be purchased at once. The only concern for some petrol station owners is safety regarding containers. Jerry cans must meet Australian standards and typically be no larger than 25 litres.
Understanding the broader struggle
Performers are aware they are not the only ones struggling. “People can’t come to the show as much because everything’s getting more expensive,” Armytage said. “And we understand that, but we’re here to try and give people a smile and a laugh for the day.”
