Cirkusbygningen

Gazing at the Cirkusbygningen, one might hear echoes of roaring lions and the delighted gasps of children. This isn’t your typical theater. Cirkusbygningen, or the Circus Building, stands proudly on Axel Torv in Copenhagen. It has witnessed over a century of spectacular performances, from daring acrobats to majestic elephants. Cirkusbygningen opened its doors in 1886, a time when permanent circus buildings were becoming fashionable in Europe. It was designed by architect Henrik Vilhelm Brinkopff. The original design was meant to be extravagant, adorned with statues and Greek columns. However, a simpler, circular design ultimately prevailed, topped by a shallow dome. The sculptor Frederik Hammeleff crafted the stunning frieze that encircles the building. It depicts scenes from ancient Rome and Greece, a testament to the classical influences of the era. This frieze miraculously survived a devastating fire in 1914. Ernst Renz, a German circus director, was the first to lease the building. He even sub-let it to his colleague, Albert Schumann the Elder, who had a circus in Malmo, Sweden. The building has seen a parade of renowned circuses, including Circus Renz, Circus Busch, and Circus Schumann. Cirkus Schumann became synonymous with Danish circus, performing there almost every summer from 1918 to 1968. Their equestrian acts were legendary, earning them a reputation as one of the best in Europe. In 1914, a disastrous fire gutted the Cirkusbygningen, leaving only the outer walls and Hammeleff’s frieze standing. It was quickly rebuilt using reinforced concrete, a cutting-edge material for the time. Cirkus Benneweis took over the summer performances from 1970 to 1990. During their tenure, the City of Copenhagen purchased the building, recognizing its cultural significance. In 1988, Cirkusbygningen was officially listed as a historical landmark. Today, Cirkusbygningen continues to entertain. It hosts diverse events like musicals, ballet performances, and conferences. It even served as a filming location for the 1973 Olsen-banden film “The Olsen Gang Goes Crazy”. So, as you stand before Cirkusbygningen, remember the laughter, the thrills, and the legacy of this enduring landmark. It is a place where dreams have been realized and where the spirit of the circus lives on.