Come on in, let the show begin!

The exhibition is dedicated to the fascinating world of the circus – a place of wonder, entertainment and dreams that has captivated people for centuries. The focus is on Jewish circus dynasties who played a decisive role in shaping the travelling circus tradition.

From the early 19th century onwards, Jewish circus families travelled from town to town with their show and magic stalls, carriages, tents and animals. They delighted their audiences with horse dressage, clowning, magic and breathtaking acrobatics. They were also regular guests at the Michaeliskirchweih festival in Fürth and frequently pitched their tents on Königsplatz – very close to what is now the Jewish Museum of Franconia.

The exhibition presents promotional posters, postcards, programmes and photographs that offer insights into the lives of the circus families both on and off the ring. Among the particular highlights are original circus artefacts and rare film footage from the early 1930s, which impressively bring the atmosphere of the circus world of that time to life.

Last edited on 22.09.2026