«LABORATORY OF THE SOVIET CIRCUS»: THE ROLE OF THE LENINGRAD STATE CIRCUS IN THE FORMATION OF SOVIET CIRCUS ART (1950S–1960S)

Varnakov Maksim Sergeevich

This study examines the period of the “thaw” in Soviet culture, begun in 1953 after the death of I.V. Stalin. The author reflects on how positive changes in the political and social life of the country influenced the development of circus art. The article notes not only changes in the thematic imagery of circus performances but also technical innovations that elevated Soviet circus to a new level of appeal for the public.

Keywords:circus, circus art, Soviet circus, Leningrad Circus.