Archaos (circus)

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Archaos was a French circus created by Pierrot Bidon in 1984. It was an alternative circus (no animals) with a dangerous theme involving stunts like chainsaw juggling, fire breathing, wall of death, etc. Archaos found fame in the UK through Pierrot's association with Adrian Evans, who promoted the company there. Shows included "Chapiteau des Cordes", "Bouinax", "BX91" and "Metal Clown". At their peak, Archaos sold out for 12 weeks on Clapham Common in 1990, following a UK tour. The 1991 tour of "Metal Clown" encountered financial difficulties after the tent was destroyed by gales in Tallaght, Dublin. This, and a number of artistic differences, led to the demise of Archaos. However, Archaos were instrumental in inspiring a number of Brits, who trained with the company, and have gone on to pursue careers in the entertainments industry, such as Mischief la Bas and Flambeaux & The P-Cult.

They also inspired the British New Circus movement, which was led by companies like Mamaloucos, who went on to collaborate with the National Theatre.