FEATURED PERFORMERS

Explore the stories of talented Black circus performers.

FEATURED EXHIBIT

UJP 16x9 THUMBNAILS (1).jpg — Jamarr Woodruff

Jamarr shares how he used his character, the Clown of Crunk as a way to challenge stereotypes of black culture and the importance of honoring black minstrel performers.

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ENTRAPMENT TO ENTERTAINMENT

Celebrate the stories of black sideshow entertainers and their unique paths to freedom, dignity, fame and fortune.

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This newest installation to our collection explores the incredible achievements of African-American sideshow artists, many of whom were born into slavery and later sold into the circus.

Through a combination of articles and still imagery, we will profile acclaimed performers such as PT Barnum's Joice Heth and conjoined twins Millie and Christine McKoy. This virtual curation will be separated into 4 separate acts as we follow these artists throughout their lifetimes and submerge ourselves into their rich histories: Origins, Career, Experiences, and Death.