When Props Make the Party: The Art of Circus Hire for Events

There’s something rather magical about circus equipment, and maybe it’s because of the instant nostalgia, or maybe it’s because a juggling club is one of those things that, when brought to a corporate function, actually makes people remember something about that function. But whatever it is, circus prop hire is one of the best-kept secrets for making events shine.

Space is more important than people think. A unicycle needs room to wobble. Juggling props need room to swing. If there are any dropped props (and there will be dropped props) there should be soft flooring. If there’s a chance of using flying props, even in static display, then professionals need to assess these. No beam should be taken for granted.

Duration can impact cost and practicality. Weekend events are standard, but events held in the middle of the week may need different considerations. Some prop hire companies offer daily rates, while others charge weekly. Insurance should be included in all hire contracts. Public liability insurance should be included if users are expected to handle props.

And finally, there’s supervision. While some props, such as diabolo sets and plate spinning kits, can be left to guests to play with, others require supervision, which can be provided by your hire company or by the entertainers you’ve hired separately. This isn’t just a safety issue; it’s a matter of people having a good time, not a silly one.

The Hidden Benefits

Circus props offer a number of hidden benefits for events. They fill awkward gaps in the schedule. They keep shy people occupied with their hands. They offer a place for people to gather that can help control the crowd.

For corporate events, circus props can actually break down status barriers that no amount of trust falls or team-building exercises seem to manage. There’s something rather leveling about watching the managing director make a complete hash of keeping three balls in the air while the intern from accounts makes it look easy.

Making It Work for Your Event

The first step in making circus props work for you is to think about how they can be matched to the character of your event. A formal event such as a black-tie do requires different props from a more casual gathering such as a community festival. Then there’s the question of how many props you need. Three juggling sets may not be sufficient for a gathering of 300 people.

Do you want to use props as a way to decorate the place, as a way to create activities for people to do, or as a combination of the two? Each option has its own implications for the props you need and how you use them. And finally, do make sure you let the venue know what you’re planning. Surprises can be nice at events, but not the kind that involve a large bill for extra insurance.

Circus props work because they tap into one of the greatest human needs – the need to play. When was the last time you saw a group of adults laugh at an event? That’s really what you’re hiring.